Opposition Bloc Pledges Unity Ahead of Elections, Vows No Internal Attacks

Leaders of Israel's "Change Bloc" opposition parties signed a joint principles document on Saturday, committing to mutual non-aggression until a new government is formed. The agreement aims to establish a "Zionist and State-Oriented Government of Correction and Reconstruction," emphasizing shared goals despite ideological differences.

The pact includes pledges to increase voter turnout, establish a state commission of inquiry into the October 7th Hamas attacks, limit prime ministerial terms, and draft a constitution. The leaders declared the upcoming election critical for the nation's fate and vowed to work together to achieve a majority and form a government that strengthens Israel as a Jewish and democratic state.

Specifically, the agreement states that no party leader or their representatives will attack a fellow bloc member or their leader from now until the government is formed. They also committed to working together immediately after the election to establish the new government.

Three working groups will be formed within 48 hours: one to boost bloc turnout and ensure election integrity, a second to draft the government's foundational principles including the aforementioned points, and a third to coordinate communications, combat fake news, and counter smear campaigns.

Naftali Bennett, leader of the "Achieving Together" party, expressed renewed hope, believing the bloc can win 63 seats and reform Israel. Yair Golan, leader of "The Democrats," stated his intention to strengthen coordinated opposition efforts and prevent those responsible for the October 7th failures from leading the country.

Background discussions also revealed a potential proposal for Benny Gantz to "gracefully withdraw" from the Knesset race, due to concerns that his party is not expected to pass the electoral threshold. Sources within the bloc indicated a strong desire to prevent any wasted votes. A meeting is expected this weekend with Gadi Eisenkot, Bennett, Yair Lapid, Avigdor Lieberman, and Golan to discuss this proposal and further steps regarding Gantz. Previously, Eisenkot criticized Bennett and Lieberman for not establishing clear principles for selecting a prime minister after the election, a sentiment Israel Beiteinu challenged, urging Eisenkot to clarify his post-election partners.