Hili Tropper Rules Out Joining Gadi Eizenkot If Coalition Depends on Arab Parties

Just days after announcing a joint run with Yoaz Hendel in the upcoming elections, Hili Tropper gave his first interview outlining clear red lines for his new political venture. Despite early polls showing their party struggling to pass the electoral threshold, Tropper remains optimistic, emphasizing that they have only just begun their campaign. He highlighted that around 300,000 Israelis are searching for a new Zionist political home, especially after the unity shown on October 7, when many set aside hatred and division.

Tropper stressed that his party focuses on internal Israeli issues such as education and healthcare, rather than the ongoing "pro- or anti-Bibi" discourse. He described the party as a collective effort, including partners like Shira Shapira, whose son fell in the "Sword of Iron" war, and Elisaf Peretz, whose brothers were fallen soldiers. Tropper firmly denied rumors that his party is a proxy for either Gadi Eizenkot or Benjamin Netanyahu, stating they represent many Israelis seeking hope.

Regarding coalition possibilities, Tropper refused to engage in numerical speculation but made clear his goal is to form a broad Zionist government. He set a firm red line against supporting Netanyahu if it requires a coalition dependent on Arab parties, a stance that contrasts with his former partner Eizenkot. Tropper criticized the current coalition for passing non-Zionist laws and siding with Arab MK Itzik Goldknopf over wounded IDF veterans.

He also called for Netanyahu to step down, arguing that all leaders in key positions during the October 7 events should end their terms, citing the precedent set by the IDF Chief of Staff and Shin Bet head. Tropper acknowledged past mistakes in serving in governments reliant on ultra-Orthodox and Arab parties but insisted that Israel now needs a purely Zionist government.

Despite offers to join other parties, Tropper chose a difficult path, motivated by personal stories of loss and hope, such as those of Shira Shapira and Yoaz Hendel, who has served hundreds of reserve days and acted decisively during the October 7 crisis. Tropper concluded by emphasizing his belief in their mission and the importance of leadership committed to Israel’s Zionist future.