Likud Signs Residual Votes Deal with Religious Zionism Bloc

The Likud party has signed an agreement concerning residual votes with the Religious Zionism-Zeut bloc. This move comes as a surprise, as many in the political system had anticipated Likud would form a similar pact with Ofir Winter's "Am Israel" party to help it secure an additional Knesset seat. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to align with Religious Zionism-Zeut leaves "Am Israel" with limited options for residual vote agreements. Winter's party could potentially seek a deal with Otzma Yehudit, though relations between Winter and Itamar Ben-Gvir are reportedly strained. Another possibility is an agreement with Yisrael Beiteinu, but this is complicated by Winter's support for Netanyahu, while Yisrael Beiteinu is a strong opponent of the prime minister. The Likud's decision is also seen as a tactic to undermine "Am Israel," as Winter has refused to run on a joint list and is competing independently. Residual vote agreements are only valid if both participating parties surpass the electoral threshold, and they must be finalized by October 16.