Religious Zionist Party Faces Backlash Over Remarks on Non-Jewish Candidates

Political controversy erupted within the Religious Zionist party following failed unification talks with the "Am Israel" party, led by retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter. Recordings from internal discussions of the Religious Zionist party, revealed by i24NEWS, highlighted a debate about a potential joint electoral run. During these discussions, party member Rabbi Yair Kertman expressed strong reservations about having non-Jewish candidates on their list, specifically mentioning Joseph Haddad, the second candidate on Winter's list. "It is very bad if we have non-Jewish candidates in the party," Kertman stated, suggesting that non-Jewish candidates might be better suited for the Likud party. Party leader Bezalel Smotrich reportedly described Winter as being "out of touch" and uninterested in forming alliances.

The "Am Israel" party reacted sharply to Kertman's remarks, denouncing them as "miserable racist statements" and criticizing Smotrich's silence as an "admission." They praised Haddad for his efforts in promoting Israel's image globally, despite personal costs, and expressed pride in his association with their party. Ultimately, "Am Israel" decided to run independently in the upcoming elections, meaning Haddad's candidacy will not be tested within the Religious Zionist party.

Winter's party had been in negotiations with the Religious Zionist party, led by Smotrich, for a potential merger ahead of the elections. However, the internal discussions, particularly Kertman's comments about Haddad, appear to have contributed to the breakdown of these talks. The "Am Israel" party's decision to run separately signifies a definitive end to the unification efforts for this electoral cycle.