Former Minister Gilad Erdan Plans Party Launch, Challenges Netanyahu and Narrow Government

Former Israeli minister Gilad Erdan is expected to announce the formation of a new political party and his return to politics by running in the upcoming 26th Knesset elections. After about two weeks of delays, Erdan's office has coordinated with media outlets to schedule the announcement. Recently, he publicly criticized statements attributed to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, particularly rejecting Netanyahu's recent policy reversal on the exemption law for ultra-Orthodox draft dodgers.

In recent weeks, Erdan has negotiated with several political figures, including MK Yuli Edelstein, former Beit Shemesh mayor Aliza Bloch, and retired Brigadier General Hazi Nechama. Olympic medalist Oren Smadja has also been involved in discussions, though no final list of candidates has been confirmed. Erdan aims to position his party as a promoter of a unity government, refusing to join a narrow government aligned solely with one side.

Erdan's response on social media emphasized his rejection of promises regarding conscription and unity, stating, "We will no longer buy promises about 'recruitment,' we will no longer buy promises about 'unity.' We will not sit in a narrow government for anyone." This signals his appeal to voters disappointed with the current coalition, especially those seeking a unity government due to the ultra-Orthodox partnership.

However, Erdan faces criticism that he may act as a proxy for Netanyahu, given his origins in the Likud party and the right-wing affiliations of his potential list members. Critics argue that if Erdan passes the electoral threshold, he could help Netanyahu form a 61-seat majority government. The political landscape is further complicated by other "third bloc" contenders, including MK Benny Gantz and the newly announced "Zionist Home - Reservists" party led by Yoaz Hendel and Hili Tropper, which some polls suggest could also cross the threshold.