Opposition Leaders Pledge Unity Ahead of Crucial Israeli Election

Leaders of Israel's "change bloc" opposition parties met at Yair Lapid's home in Tel Aviv to forge a pact ahead of the upcoming elections, emphasizing their shared goal of forming a "government of change and restoration." The signatories, including Gadi Eisenkot, Naftali Bennett, Avigdor Lieberman, Yair Golan, and Yair Lapid, acknowledged their ideological differences but committed to working together to secure a majority and establish a government that will "preserve and strengthen Israel as a Jewish and democratic state."

In a joint communiqué, the leaders pledged to refrain from attacking each other or their respective parties from now until a government is formed. They also committed to collaborating immediately after the elections to establish the new government.

To facilitate this cooperation, three joint working groups will be established within 48 hours. Group A will focus on increasing voter turnout for the bloc, election day preparations, and ensuring election integrity. Group B will develop the foundational policies for the future government, including principles of equal burden-sharing, a state commission of inquiry into the October 7th events, limiting the prime minister's term, and a 100-day action plan. Group C will be a joint press team tasked with coordinating messaging, combating fake news, and countering incitement.

The leaders expressed their unity and determination to bring "change and hope" back to Israel, urging citizens who believe in the country's values to vote and shape their future. They signed the document, committing to its serious implementation before the public.