Israel’s Channel 14 reported for the first time on Monday that people working for Yisrael Beiteinu leader Avigdor Lieberman have been holding discreet talks with organizations formed during the war ahead of the next election. The meeting was presented as an effort to examine possible cooperation and even a joint run in the coming campaign.
According to the report, the gathering took place the previous night and included representatives from several groups, among them "Al HaDegel," the reservists’ movement led by Yoaz Hendel, and a representative of Dedi Shmhi. Yisrael Beiteinu also sent an official delegate to the discussions.
That delegate was Ariel Manashe, chairman of the "Haredim Integrating" forum, who has recently been working behind the scenes to create political connections for Lieberman and his party. Manashe previously served in the offices of Knesset members from Yisrael Beiteinu.
The article says his participation raises questions about whether these wartime-born organizations, which are now seeking a foothold in politics, have found a natural partner in Yisrael Beiteinu. It adds that the party is quietly exploring different scenarios for a joint run in order to strengthen itself in the upcoming election, which it refers to as the 2026 vote.
