Israeli Minister Urges Small Parties to Withdraw from Election Race

Minister of Settlement and National Missions Orit Struk called on the "Am Israel" party led by Ofer Winter and the "Noam" party to withdraw from the upcoming elections, warning that their failure to pass the electoral threshold poses a significant risk to the country. Speaking at the Somat and Makor Rishon conference in Jerusalem, Struk stated that Winter's party "will not pass under any scenario" and that the elections are "critical." She expressed respect for the individuals involved but emphasized the "dramatic event" of their potential failure to enter the Knesset.

Struk specifically addressed Eliyahu Liebman of the Noam party, whom she has known since childhood, urging him and his party not to accept the "stigma" of potentially causing a binational government due to their ambition to enter the Knesset. She implored them to exercise moral judgment and withdraw, citing the withdrawal of "David" as an example of true leadership.

Regarding the possibility of a unity government, Struk affirmed the value of unity but stressed that the "dramatic questions" facing Israel are paramount. She stated that the right-wing bloc would not abandon its principles and would not be part of the left-wing bloc's "boycotts" against the majority of Israeli society within the Likud party. Struk also expressed skepticism about the left-wing parties, suggesting they are more left-wing than they appear, and deemed the Arab parties irrelevant.

On the issue of Gaza's reconstruction, Struk advised Israeli companies not to sign contracts until the Peace Council abandons its "salami plan," warning that progress is impossible under its current framework. She also voiced opposition to Trump's plan for Gaza, stating there is "zero chance" of de-radicalization and that Israel remained in government to uphold red lines. Struk reiterated the call for the Peace Council to publicly renounce the "salami plan" before any advancement, emphasizing that Israel cannot "abandon its security again."

Struk also advocated for Israeli sovereignty in parts of Gaza, calling the territory part of Mandate Palestine and arguing that events like October 7th must result in territorial cost. Concerning violence in the West Bank, she condemned such acts, stating they must be addressed, and suggested increased police involvement rather than military intervention, as soldiers should focus on security.