Gilad Erdan to Announce New Right-Wing Party with Yuli Edelstein as No. 2

Gilad Erdan, former minister and ambassador, is set to announce the formation of a new right-wing political party on Thursday. Yuli Edelstein, who left the Likud party about a month ago, will be placed second on the party's list. This initiative aims to create an alternative right-wing option within the so-called "third bloc," which seeks to offer voters a new choice beyond the existing right-wing parties.

Erdan has been in talks with several figures, including former Beit Shemesh mayor Aliza Bloch and businessman Chazi Nechama, who confirmed ongoing advanced discussions with him. Additional negotiations are reportedly taking place with other political entities and individuals. The new party is positioning itself with a clear stance against joining any government coalition that includes the Democratic Party, ruling out any cooperation or external support involving them. This red line limits the party's potential coalition options and complicates possible alliances within the third bloc.

The announcement follows reports last Friday about Erdan's progress in establishing this political framework. The move reflects the crowded and complex political landscape on the right, where multiple initiatives compete to shape the post-election scenario. Erdan's firm opposition to partnering with the Democrats highlights the ideological boundaries defining this new party's strategy and potential future role in Israeli politics.