Yoaz Hendel Ends Joint Run with Benny Gantz and Dedi Simchi, Eyes New Partner

Recent negotiations between Yoaz Hendel, chairman of the "Reservists" party, Benny Gantz, and retired Brigadier General Dedi Simchi have collapsed due to ideological differences, as first reported by Walla. The main point of contention was Hendel's hardline stance against sitting with ultra-Orthodox parties, a key part of his party's platform, while Simchi was open to alliances with these parties. Another significant disagreement involved Gantz and Hendel's opposing views on forming a government with Benjamin Netanyahu.

Previously, the three had agreed to run together in the upcoming elections with a joint leadership headed by Gantz and Simchi, and a planned ballot listing "Benny Gantz" first, followed by "Dedi Simchi." The arrangement also included equal representation, with Gantz, Simchi, and Hendel expected to occupy the first, second, and third spots respectively, and each side receiving five Knesset seats.

Following the breakdown, Hendel has been in talks with Hili Tropper, who was recently a close ally of Gantz, signaling a shift in his political alliances. These developments come amid ongoing strategic calculations ahead of the elections scheduled for June 24, 2026.