Reservists Party Opens Headquarters Amid Center-Right Coalition Talks and Internal Democratic Party Struggles
Amid ongoing fighting in northern Israel, the Reservists Party has opened a new headquarters in Kiryat Shmona, focusing on political alliances that could influence the formation of the next government. The party's attention is on a key figure currently serving in the reserves, who holds a pivotal vote that could determine the coalition's future if he aligns with Benny Gantz and Dedi Simchi. However, uniting these factions faces significant challenges, primarily over the role of ultra-Orthodox parties. This issue divides the key players, with one known for a hardline stance against the ultra-Orthodox and the other less concerned about the matter. Additionally, political tensions persist as this figure is not a Netanyahu supporter, and Gantz is reluctant to grant Benny Gantz's ally, Gadi Eizenkot, the decisive 61st vote needed to lead the government.
Simultaneously, other center-right groups dissatisfied with the current coalition are actively negotiating potential alliances. Recently, rabbis approached Ayelet Shaked and Yuli Edelstein to establish a political home for Religious Zionists unaffiliated with Bezalel Smotrich. Names like Gilad Erdan, Ofer Winter, and Hili Tropper are also emerging as possible candidates for political maneuvers, while the "Fourth Quarter" movement is engaging in talks ahead of the elections. Analysts cautiously predict that only one party from this cluster will surpass the electoral threshold.
Meanwhile, Naftali Bennett, who partnered with Yair Lapid to contest the leadership of the bloc, is losing ground and attempting to revive his campaign with a focus on work plans and distinguishing himself from Gadi Eizenkot. His declining public status is evident as media outlets no longer broadcast his statements live, and his midday press conference signals a shift in his campaign's momentum. In contrast, Eizenkot is becoming accustomed to his role as a leading prime ministerial candidate, attracting growing international media interest. He plans to unveil his government plans at an upcoming evening event attended by both Israeli and foreign press.
Within the Democratic Party, internal conflicts have surfaced publicly after being previously concealed. Dozens of candidates have officially submitted their nominations for limited list spots, triggering political rivalries. Communications advisor Ronen Tzur, who declared his candidacy with party leaders present, soon shifted from praise to criticism of the chairman and Knesset members. His withdrawal was seen as averting a potential "putsch" after the elections, as party insiders viewed him as a disruptive figure who also performed poorly in internal polls. This development has brought some relief within the party ranks.
