Israeli Parties Finalize Knesset Lists Amidst Internal Strife

The deadline for submitting party lists to the Israeli Knesset's election committee is rapidly approaching, with the official submission window closing at 10 PM on Tuesday, potentially extended to midnight by the committee chairman. Several major parties are still grappling with internal issues, including candidate selection and last-minute changes, as the election enters its decisive phase.

The Likud party faces ongoing disputes over reserved spots on its list, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delaying the announcement of his chosen candidates. A scheduled meeting to approve these reservations was postponed, indicating continued internal debate. Tech entrepreneur Oren Dobronsky, who had been offered a top reserved spot by Netanyahu, announced he would not run for the Knesset.

United Torah Judaism is experiencing significant shifts in its roster. Following the removal of Moshe Gafni, Yaakov Asher is expected to lead the list. Uri Maklev will not be part of the list, and in Agudat Yisrael, Yisrael Eichler is reportedly making way for Eliyachin Stark, a prominent figure in the Belz Hasidic dynasty.

Shas is also finalizing its list after discussions among its council of Torah sages. New potential candidates include Yosef Elnatano, representing the Bukharan community, and retired Lieutenant Colonel Dror Amos. Ministers Yoav Ben-Tzur and Moshe Abutbul are reportedly secure in their positions.

In the Religious Zionism party, an attempt to merge with Ofer Winter's "Am Israel" party failed as "Am Israel" submitted its list separately. However, a joint run with Moshe Feiglin's "Identity" party is proceeding, with Feiglin placed second and his party securing three spots in the top ten, though they are expected to split after the election.

The joint Arab list, uniting Hadash, Ta'al, and Balad, has not yet revealed its full composition. Jaafar Farah, initially slated for fourth place, withdrew due to sexual harassment allegations. Hadash is expected to announce a replacement today, likely a woman.

Changes are also occurring within Benny Gantz's party. A proposed alliance with Gilad Erdan's "Unity" party did not materialize, as Erdan announced his withdrawal from the race. However, discussions about a potential union with Yoaz Hendel and reservists continue. MK Michael Biton announced his departure from the party, shortly after which Aliza Bloch joined.