Netanyahu Maneuvers Ahead of Elections, Targeting Opponents and Shifting Alliances

As the deadline for party registration for the 26th Knesset elections approaches, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly maneuvering to consolidate his political base and neutralize potential threats. A key focus is on Ofer Winter, a former IDF general, whom Netanyahu is allegedly attempting to sideline. This move comes despite Netanyahu having signed a surplus agreement with the Religious Zionism party, a move that would typically preclude efforts to eliminate a potential rival. The article suggests Netanyahu is also indirectly challenging Itamar Ben-Gvir, leaving him without a party to merge with unless he agrees to join forces with Winter.

Winter, who registered his party early to avoid pressure, believes he can attract "soft right-wing" voters disillusioned with the current coalition. However, the article questions whether this demographic is substantial enough to help Winter cross the electoral threshold, suggesting it might be a "bluff" of vocal individuals without a large following. Netanyahu's campaign machinery is expected to exert significant pressure on Winter.

In a surprising turn, the Likud party has bolstered its list with several new candidates, including individuals who lost family members in the October 7th attacks. This move is seen as a message that Netanyahu remains the leader, even if mistakes were made. The article also notes the addition of Eli Goldschmidt, a former Labor party official, whose shift is defended as genuine and not politically opportunistic.

The ultra-Orthodox party United Torah Judaism has undergone significant internal changes, including a shift in the list's ranking between the Vizhnitz and Belz Hasidic factions. This internal dynamic, coupled with external pressures like legal challenges and the emergence of new Haredi parties, could impact the party's future electoral strength. Furthermore, leaders Yitzhak Goldknopf and Moshe Gafni are reportedly seeking alliances with opposition figures like Benny Gantz, partly due to the unresolved conscription law and Netanyahu's perceived weakening of the Council of Torah Sages' influence.

Meanwhile, political commentator Yaakov Bardugo is positioned to rally voters in Likud strongholds, contrasting with Isaac Herzog's efforts to mobilize voters in the same areas. Bardugo's appeal, based on tradition and opposition to the 'establishment,' is expected to resonate more strongly with these demographics.