Netanyahu Presses Rivals to Withdraw Days Before Election

With six days remaining until the elections, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is intensifying efforts to persuade Moti Lightner, chairman of the Haredi Public Party, and Ofer Winter, chairman of the Am Israel Party, to withdraw from the race. Netanyahu personally spoke with Lightner by phone, following days of discussions by his associates aimed at convincing him to step aside. Lightner, however, stated he does not feel he has the moral right to withdraw and believes both the Likud party and other Haredi parties missed an opportunity for cooperation.

Netanyahu also visited the home of Rabbi Eli Sadan, head of the Hesder Yeshiva in Eli, to enlist his help in convincing his student, Ofer Winter, to withdraw. Rabbi Sadan reportedly agreed that Winter should withdraw but expressed doubts about his influence over him. The Likud party is reportedly continuing to exert significant pressure on both Lightner and Winter.

Lightner indicated that his party is also preparing for municipal elections and aims to demonstrate their strength there. He also commented that the opportunity for cooperation with Likud and other Haredi parties was missed before the candidate lists were finalized. His party had sought to advance issues such as Hesder yeshivas for the Haredi community, a mutually agreed-upon conscription plan, and core curriculum studies.

Lightner and his associates currently appear unconvinced by promises from Likud and are signaling their intention to run until the end, with pressure expected to increase as election day approaches. The Likud's strategy regarding Winter may also involve encouraging Rabbi Sadan to issue a public statement, hoping it will influence voters even if it doesn't directly sway Winter.