Gilad Erdan Launches New Right-Wing Party Pledging Broad Zionist Government and Universal Service

Gilad Erdan, Israel's former ambassador to the UN and ex-minister, officially announced the formation of a new right-wing political party on Thursday, alongside former Knesset Speaker and Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee chairman Yuli Edelstein. Erdan declared his departure from Likud after more than 30 years, citing a disconnect between the party's current leadership and its voters. He emphasized that his move was motivated by a desire to restore right-wing values he believes have eroded, not an ideological shift.

Erdan stated the new party aims to establish a "broad Zionist government" and will promote a Basic Law mandating military or national service for all Israeli citizens. He criticized narrow coalition governments, vowing not to join any "narrow government" that prioritizes sectoral interests over the majority of Israelis. Erdan highlighted the importance of shared national responsibility, saying, "True right-wing means enlistment and sharing the burden," and stressed unity across religious and political divides, especially following the October 7 Hamas attacks.

Reflecting on his past activism with Edelstein against the Gaza disengagement, Erdan reaffirmed his opposition to a Palestinian state and commitment to Israel's security and governance. He criticized the current political system for forcing voters to choose between national service and settlement support, calling this a false choice. The party's platform centers on equal service obligations and benefits, arguing that those who serve should receive state incentives, while those who do not should not.

Erdan also announced that retired Colonel Hazi Nechama has joined the new party, with more right-wing figures expected to follow. The party's name is yet to be revealed. Erdan concluded by inviting right-wing voters dissatisfied with existing options to join his movement, expressing optimism about Israel's future under a broad, unified government.