Israeli Opposition Leaders Vow to Halt Internal Attacks Ahead of Election

Five Israeli opposition leaders convened at Yair Lapid's Tel Aviv home on Saturday evening to strategize for the upcoming legislative elections scheduled for October 27. Following their meeting, they signed a joint declaration pledging to cease mutual attacks during the campaign period. The signatories include Gadi Eisenkot of the Yashar party, Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid representing B'Yachad, Yair Golan of the Democrats, and Avigdor Liberman, head of Israel Beytenu.

Despite ideological differences, the five leaders stated their shared goal of forming a new government after the vote. The agreement commits their parties and representatives to refrain from attacking other factions within their bloc. This move comes after weeks of internal friction, particularly concerning who would contend for the prime minister position.

The parties are also tasked with establishing several joint working groups within 48 hours. These groups will focus on boosting voter turnout, ensuring election integrity, and outlining potential policies for a future government. Key issues to be addressed include the conscription of ultra-Orthodox men and the formation of a state commission of inquiry into failures preceding and during the October 7, 2023, massacre.

Benny Gantz, leader of the National Unity party, did not attend the meeting. Gantz is positioning himself outside the main political blocs and reportedly placed a mobile sign outside Lapid's residence during the gathering stating, "Blocs are holding Israel back." The meeting did not result in the selection of a single candidate for prime minister, as several leaders within the bloc are vying for the leadership of a potential future government.