Likud Signs Surplus Agreement with Religious Zionism, Isolating Ben-Gvir

The Likud party has signed a surplus agreement with the Religious Zionism party, leaving Otzma Yehudit leader Itamar Ben-Gvir without a partner for electoral surplus sharing. This move is seen by Otzma Yehudit as part of the Likud's strategy to diminish their influence and Ben-Gvir's standing in the upcoming government.

Ofer Vinter's party, "Am Israel," has been fluctuating around the electoral threshold, with recent polls showing it falling below the required percentage to enter the Knesset. The Likud had previously considered signing a surplus agreement with Vinter if his party stabilized above the threshold, but has now opted for Religious Zionism.

Throughout the election campaign, the Likud's approach to Vinter has shifted. Initially, figures close to Benjamin Netanyahu attempted to persuade Yosef Haddad, number two on Vinter's list, to defect to Likud, a move that would have significantly harmed Vinter's party. Later, pressure was applied on Vinter to withdraw from the race.

Otzma Yehudit views the Likud's decision to sign with Religious Zionism as another step in their ongoing dispute with Likud over Ben-Gvir's position within the bloc and the future government. The agreement with Religious Zionism will only be effective for surplus vote distribution if "Am Israel" successfully passes the electoral threshold.