Former MK Michael Ben-Ari Rules Out Knesset Run, Cites Other Avenues

Former Knesset Member Dr. Michael Ben-Ari announced Tuesday that he will not be running in the upcoming elections, emphasizing that his decision is unrelated to an ongoing legal case.

Ben-Ari stated, "To many asking: I am not running in the upcoming elections, with no connection to my trial currently underway. I wish and hope for great success for the right-wing bloc." He added that he intends to continue his activism outside of the Knesset, explaining, "The Knesset is an important and significant tool to serve the people of Israel, but there are other ways to do so, and God willing, I intend to continue as best I can in the battle for public consciousness."

His announcement follows a previous joint run declaration with Moshe Feiglin under the banner of the Identity Party (Zehut) in May. However, subsequent to an alliance formed between Bezalel Smotrich and Feiglin, sources close to Ben-Ari and Baruch Marzel expressed disappointment and anger. These sources claimed the new union did not represent them and they would not vote for the list, feeling Ben-Ari was disregarded despite his prior collaboration with Feiglin.

Sources close to Ben-Ari argued that his joining Zehut had significantly boosted its poll numbers, with some surveys showing its strength doubling or tripling. They found it difficult to understand how the new union was finalized without his inclusion, especially since Feiglin was aware of Ben-Ari's contribution.

Following Ben-Ari's decision, Baruch Marzel publicly appealed to him, urging him to reconsider. "Michael, I am appealing to you on behalf of many friends who feel exactly as I do: if you don't run for the Knesset, we will have no one to vote for," Marzel wrote. He added that several lists are interested in Ben-Ari joining them and implored him not to remain outside the political system, stating, "We need you inside the system, not outside it."