Likud Considers Integrating Bezalel Smotrich to Secure Right-Wing Votes

In recent days, the Likud party has been reevaluating its strategy regarding right-wing parties, according to political reporter Anna Breski in Maariv. A senior Likud official revealed that discussions with coalition members have focused on preventing the loss of crucial right-wing votes, especially from parties at risk of falling below the electoral threshold.

Previously, Likud's efforts centered on forming a joint technical bloc between Otzma Yehudit, led by Itamar Ben-Gvir, and Religious Zionism, headed by Bezalel Smotrich. However, the party now sees this alliance as counterproductive. The official explained that a joint run harms both parties' voter potential, as Smotrich alienates some of Ben-Gvir's supporters and vice versa.

Given the deadlock and concerns over losing votes from the Religious Zionist camp, Likud is exploring alternative options. One possibility under consideration is offering reserved spots on the Likud list to Smotrich and his associates, ensuring their parliamentary inclusion without endangering the right-wing bloc's overall strength.

This strategic shift reflects Likud's urgent need to consolidate right-wing votes ahead of upcoming elections, aiming to maintain a strong coalition presence and prevent fragmentation among ideologically similar parties.