Smotrich Moves to Fill Party List After Unity Talks with Ofer Winter Collapse

The National Religious Party is moving forward with filling its electoral slate after negotiations for a potential union with a party led by Ofer Winter failed to materialize. Party leader Bezalel Smotrich had reportedly held off on adding new candidates to the list, reserving spots for a possible merger with Winter's faction.

According to the National Religious Party, Smotrich had considered bringing in several figures but delayed a decision to keep options open for a joint run with Winter. The proposed union was part of broader efforts to consolidate votes within the right-wing bloc ahead of the upcoming elections, with the party believing a merger could strengthen their position and mitigate the risk of vote splitting.

However, following indications that Winter intends to run independently, Smotrich is now expected to proceed with evaluating potential candidates for reserved spots on the party's list. The National Religious Party criticized Winter's reported decision, stating that an independent run would be an "irresponsible gamble on the future of right-wing rule and the State of Israel."