Senior Member Leaves Bennett-Lapid 'Together' Party Amid Internal Crisis

Hanania Ben Shimon, a founding member of the 'Shoulder to Shoulder' movement and a senior figure in the 'Together' party led by Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid, announced his departure from the party and its campaign due to personal reasons. The announcement, made through internal party groups, surprised party members. Ben Shimon stated he joined the party with strong belief in its vision and the 'New Agreement' but decided to resign from his role in the youth headquarters and leave the campaign.

Ben Shimon expressed gratitude to his colleagues for their cooperation and wished them success in their efforts to reform the country. His exit comes amid a turbulent period for the 'Together' party, which is struggling with low poll numbers and internal criticism. Recent polls show the party securing only 15 seats, trailing behind Gadi Eisenkot's Yisrael! party with 20 seats and Likud with 23 seats.

The party faces mounting challenges, including speculation that Bennett might retire from politics due to the poor polling. Meanwhile, Bennett's former political partner Ayelet Shaked is reportedly negotiating a joint run with Avigdor Lieberman's Israel Beiteinu party, following her split from Bennett after his alliance with Lapid. Ben Shimon's departure adds to the difficulties confronting the party as it heads toward the elections, raising questions about whether Bennett and Lapid can regain voter trust or if the downward trend will continue.