Hendel Vows to Build 'Third Bloc' Despite Election Results
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
Yoaz Hendel, chairman of the Reservists and Economics Party, stated his commitment to forming a "third bloc" to bridge political divides in Israel, despite his party currently being below the electoral threshold. He criticized media coverage and major parties for allegedly discouraging voters and urged Zionist parties to unite. Hendel believes his party's support signals a public desire for change, and he intends to continue his political efforts even if new elections are held.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Yoaz Hendel vows to establish a political "third bloc" to unite Israeli society.
- Hendel criticizes media and major parties for allegedly hindering his party's election chances.
- His party is currently below the 3.25% electoral threshold with vote counting ongoing.
- Hendel calls for Zionist parties to unite and form a joint government.
- He believes the events of October 7th highlight the need for fundamental national change.
Yoaz Hendel, chairman of the Reservists and Economics Party, has broken his silence following the recent elections, acknowledging his party's current standing below the electoral threshold. He attributed potential voter deterrence to media reports on election day and urged leaders of Zionist parties to unite. Hendel stated his commitment to establishing a political force that bridges existing blocs, even if new elections are called.
Hendel took responsibility for his party's performance, criticizing major parties and the media for allegedly attempting to discourage voters from supporting him. He called for a joint government among Zionist parties, signaling his intent to continue his political endeavors regardless of further elections. These remarks were made while his party remained below the 3.25% electoral threshold, with vote counting still ongoing.
He explained his decision to form a party independent of the main political blocs as a deliberate move to counter increasing polarization in Israeli society. Hendel expressed concern that without uniting Zionist forces, Israel risks fragmentation. He criticized both right-wing parties for cooperating with Haredi parties and potential governments relying on Arab parties that do not recognize Hamas as a terror organization.
Hendel articulated his vision for a unified Israel, emphasizing the need for equal conscription for all citizens, including national service for Arab Israelis, and strengthening governance in the Negev, Galilee, and Haredi areas. He believes the events of October 7th underscored the urgent need for fundamental change in the country.
He further alleged that his party faced a smear campaign from the Likud and media reports that falsely claimed they would not pass the electoral threshold, even when they were close. Hendel also pointed to the significant resource disparity between his party, which raised hundreds of thousands of shekels, and larger parties with multi-million shekel budgets, which he believes intimidated potential supporters.
As of the latest update, with 96.1% of votes counted, Hendel's party has secured 2.68% of the vote, falling short of the threshold. However, the final results are not yet public, and Hendel acknowledged the uncertainty of the final vote count, estimating it could range from 150,000 to 180,000 votes. He asserted that even if his party does not enter the Knesset, the support received indicates a public demand for leadership and change.
