Netanyahu Pushes for Religious Zionist Party and Noam Merger Before Deadline

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is exerting significant pressure on Religious Zionist Party leader Bezalel Smotrich to merge his party with Avi Maoz's Noam party, just before the deadline for submitting Knesset candidate lists. Sources close to the Prime Minister are reportedly urging both sides to unite, arguing that such a merger would be beneficial for them.

Despite Netanyahu's efforts, direct negotiations between the Religious Zionist Party and Noam have not yet commenced, according to reports. However, Netanyahu's associates are expected to continue their lobbying until the list submission deadline later today.

The pressure from Netanyahu's circle includes a warning that if Maoz runs independently, he might be forced to withdraw his candidacy shortly before the elections. Furthermore, it is suggested that the Likud party's campaign efforts would hinder Noam's growth.

Previously, the Religious Zionist Party agreed to run on a joint technical bloc with Moshe Feiglin's Zehut party, with each party maintaining its distinct identity, platform, and principles.