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 city’s Stock Exchange Administration, has officially joined the Yashar party led by former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot. Zari was first elected to the Ramat Gan City Council in 2018 after founding an independent youth party at age 28. In the February 2024 local elections, he ran on the "Blue and White and Youth" list, which received support from Benny Gantz and the Blue and White party, winning two council seats. In April 2024, Zari was appointed Deputy Mayor and took charge of portfolios including the Stock Exchange Administration, infrastructure, environmental sustainability, youth, and special needs.

Zari holds a bachelor's degree in communications with honors from Reichman University and completed the Argov Leadership and Diplomacy program. His previous roles include personal advisor to the Transport Minister, spokesperson for Raanana Municipality, the Israeli Scouts movement, and the LGBT Association in Israel. As head of the Stock Exchange Administration, he spearheaded the renewal of the area, facilitating the relocation of Wolt’s national headquarters and the establishment of Shenkar College’s new campus. He also led social initiatives such as the "House of Giving" project to support welfare families and war victims in Ramat Gan.

Zari emphasized his lifelong commitment to youth and public service, stating that Israel’s 2026 reality demands active responsibility and leadership. He expressed concern over societal division and hatred, calling them existential threats, and said he joined Yashar because he believes in honest, national leadership that prioritizes the welfare of all Israeli citizens and promotes hope and unity.

The announcement comes ahead of the 2026 elections, positioning Yashar as a party focused on integrity and national cohesion under Eizenkot’s leadership.