Yuli Edelstein Leaves Likud to Launch New Political Path Aiming for Unity Government

Yuli Edelstein, a longtime senior figure in the Likud party and former Knesset Speaker and Health Minister, announced his departure from Likud after years of internal disagreements. In an interview on the program "Meet the Press," Edelstein explained that he found it increasingly difficult to publicly support the party's policies and intends to establish a new political framework. This new entity will seek to form a unity government but will not join the left-wing bloc.

Edelstein's resignation comes amid ongoing political tensions within the national camp and signals an attempt to create an alternative political option. His move is expected to deepen the turmoil within Likud, especially as the party prepares for upcoming primaries and decisions regarding reserved spots on the candidate list.

The key questions now are which politicians will join Edelstein's new initiative and whether his personal departure will evolve into a broader political movement. This development occurs in the context of preparations for the 2026 elections and ongoing leadership dynamics involving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Likud party.