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 Leitner, chairman of the Haredi Public Party, and Ofer Winter, chairman of the Am Israel Party, to withdraw from the race. Netanyahu personally spoke with Leitner by phone, while his associates have been engaged in continuous discussions to convince him to step aside. Leitner, 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 Eli Yeshiva, 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 own influence over him. The Likud party is reportedly exerting significant pressure on both Leitner and Winter, offering various policy advancements to Leitner, particularly concerning Haredi yeshivas, a conscription agreement, and core curriculum studies.

Leitner and his party appear unconvinced by Likud's promises and are signaling their intention to run until the end, potentially anticipating further election rounds. They have also indicated a focus on municipal elections to demonstrate their strength. Leitner expressed regret that cooperation opportunities were missed before the party lists were finalized.

Meanwhile, the Likud's strategy regarding Winter involves encouraging Rabbi Sadan to issue a public statement, hoping it will influence Winter's voters even if it doesn't directly sway Winter himself. Winter, for his part, is reportedly determined to continue his candidacy.