Opposition Leaders Form Alliance on Core Principles Ahead of Elections

Several prominent Israeli opposition figures, including former Prime Ministers Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid, along with Avigdor Lieberman, Yair Golan, and Gadi Eisenkot, have formed a strategic alliance focused on core principles rather than a unified party list. The initiative aims to increase voter turnout and safeguard election integrity, with separate teams addressing voter engagement, foundational policy plans for the first 100 days, and message coordination to combat disinformation.

The alliance is built around shared principles such as limiting government power, establishing a constitution, forming a state commission of inquiry, and ensuring equality in national service. While acknowledging ideological differences, the signatories emphasize a commitment to a "state liberal democracy." Voters are encouraged to support their preferred party on election day, with the understanding that all factions will unite behind the "change bloc" after the results are tallied.

The author notes that despite this effort, internal criticism and the "yes, but" mentality persist within the public discourse. This internal debate, while a part of Israeli political DNA, is seen as detrimental in the current climate, particularly as it plays into the hands of supporters of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who claim the opposition lacks leadership.

The article highlights that fundamental issues like equality in national service, a state commission of inquiry into the October 7th attacks, term limits for the prime minister, and a constitution are widely supported ideas, but their association with the "change bloc" has become politicized. The author contrasts this internal conflict with the ongoing leadership of Prime Minister Netanyahu, particularly in the context of the October 7th attacks and the strain on reservist soldiers.

The core message is that the "buts" and criticisms should be deferred until after the elections. The focus, the author argues, should be on the current government's performance and addressing critical national needs, especially security. The alliance's stated goal is to unite around shared principles, with the understanding that the "change bloc" will address its internal divisions and broader policy questions after the upcoming elections.