Negotiations Stall Over Benny Gantz Leading New Political List Amid Opposition from Shaked and Edelstein

Negotiations to form a joint political list involving Benny Gantz, Yoaz Hendel, Dedi Simchi, Hili Tropper, Yuli Edelstein, and Ayelet Shaked have reached an impasse. The main dispute centers on opposition from Edelstein and Shaked to Gantz leading the list. Initially, with Hendel involved, there was an agreement on shared leadership between Simchi and Gantz, with Gantz at the top of the list. However, Hendel has since aligned with Tropper, strengthening efforts to create a list including Gantz, Simchi, Edelstein, and Shaked.

Edelstein and Shaked argue that placing Gantz first will not yield a high number of mandates and will fail to attract right-wing voters they seek. Gantz insists on holding the top spot, claiming he brings the list's main economic strength. According to sources familiar with the talks, there is consensus on campaign strategy, messaging, ideological views, and the concept of a centrist party promoting unity. The core disagreement remains leadership placement and concerns about voter appeal.

Meetings and discussions among the four are expected to continue in the coming days to bridge differences and decide on leadership. The outcome will determine the structure and leadership of the potential new political list ahead of upcoming elections.