New Political Alliance Aims to Disrupt Israeli Blocs

In their first joint interview since forming a political alliance, Yoaz Hendel, Professor Yaron Zelicha, and Dr. Einat Wilf have outlined their core principles and aspirations for the post-election landscape. The trio aims to present a "third bloc" alternative to Israel's traditional political divides.

Hendel stated he does not boycott Prime Minister Netanyahu but opposes a narrow government, whether with Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) parties in their current form or with Arab parties. He envisions a broad "Zionist government" and would be open to participating if Netanyahu, Gadi Eisenkot, and Naftali Bennett were to unite. Zelicha declared he would only accept the role of Finance Minister, asserting that only from that position can he effectively lower the cost of living. Wilf, meanwhile, advocates for judicial reform and dismisses the discourse around a Palestinian state as an "unnecessary discussion among Jews" about a non-existent problem.

The alliance members have also indicated their intended roles. Hendel aims to lead in conscription and security matters, Zelicha is set on the Finance Ministry to implement economic reforms like reducing housing costs and taxes for small businesses, and Wilf is positioned to head foreign affairs and policy. Zelicha also addressed recent poll controversies, claiming to possess a recording that suggests some pollsters prevented individuals from selecting his party.

Zelicha detailed his economic plan, which includes five key reforms to be introduced in the first "Arrangements Law": abolishing all customs duties, import quotas, and exclusive importer statuses, preventing local monopolies from controlling imports, and enacting legislation against price-gouging monopolies. He vowed to personally enforce these measures, even against opposition from corporations and the Supreme Court.

Wilf expressed her belief that Israel has lost the "war of consciousness" during the recent conflict, with 70% of the battle fought on global screens where Israel was largely absent. She advocates for strengthening the Knesset's power over both the government and the judiciary. Hendel also took a firm stance on national service, stating that those who choose not to serve should not receive state benefits, while incentives for service members should be significantly increased.