New Party Member Invites Rival Smotrich to Join Government

Shaul Meridor, a new member of Gadi Eisenkot's "Yisrael" party, stated on Tuesday that any Zionist, state-oriented party that adheres to their core principles will be invited to join their government. Meridor specifically addressed the possibility of Bezalel Smotrich joining such a government, explaining that while they do not disqualify potential partners, Smotrich would need to align with their platform, which advocates for policies directly opposite to his current actions in Judea and Samaria. Meridor asserted that Smotrich's current policies endanger the Zionist enterprise and the Jewish and democratic state. "If Smotrich understands he made a serious mistake and wants to change his policy to our core principles, then of course he is invited to the government," Meridor said, adding that the decision rests with Smotrich. He further elaborated that the party aims to secure over 61 seats to replace Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whom he blames for significant damage to Israel, including the events of October 7th, societal division, and the exclusion of conscripts while honoring those who serve.

Meridor also dismissed the idea of a rotation government, calling it a poor solution to a problem best resolved through elections. He emphasized that their goal is to persuade voters to elect them and replace Netanyahu, stating that rotation is not on the table and Netanyahu must leave office.