Ramat Gan Deputy Mayor Israel Zari Joins Gadi Eizenkot’s Yashar Party

Israel Zari, the 36-year-old Deputy Mayor of Ramat Gan and head of the Bourse Administration, announced on Tuesday his decision to join the political party Yashar, led by former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot. Zari will represent the younger generation within the party and focus on local government, youth issues, and civil equality.

Gadi Eizenkot welcomed Zari’s entry, praising him as a valuable asset who embodies the young and quality public leadership Israel needs. Eizenkot highlighted Zari’s leadership in key economic and municipal projects and his committed advocacy for equal rights and younger generations.

Zari was first elected to Ramat Gan’s city council in 2018 through an independent youth list he founded and was the city’s first openly gay public official. In 2024, he was appointed Deputy Mayor and head of the Bourse Administration, where he has worked on revitalizing the Bourse area, attracting companies and institutions, and promoting sustainability and welfare initiatives. His background includes roles as an advisor to the Minister of Transportation, spokesperson for Raanana Municipality, the Scouts movement, and the LGBT Association. He holds a bachelor’s degree in communication from Reichman University and completed the Argov Leadership and Diplomacy program.

Upon joining Yashar, Zari stated that Israel’s 2026 reality demands active responsibility and influence within national decision-making centers. He emphasized his belief in leadership measured by action, courage to advance equality, and care for future generations. Zari criticized the current societal hatred and division as existential threats and said he joined Eizenkot’s party because he believes in honest, state-oriented leadership that prioritizes all Israeli citizens.

Zari joins other notable figures who have recently joined Yashar, including former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen, former minister Matan Kahana, Shaul Meridor, Orit Farkash-Hacohen, Kamil Abu Rokon, and South Sharon Regional Council head Oshrat Gani Gonen.