Gantz to Lead Joint List, Shaked to Choose Government Role in Possible Third Bloc Union

Benny Gantz and Ayelet Shaked are negotiating a joint run in the upcoming October 27 elections, with a proposed arrangement placing Gantz first on the combined list or entity they aim to form. However, Shaked would receive the first choice of government position if the alliance materializes. This plan reflects ongoing talks between the two, with Shaked pushing for a significant role in the government while Gantz insists on leading the list.

The potential union emerges amid assessments by all partners in the center-right bloc, known unofficially as the "third bloc," that further consolidation is necessary to surpass the electoral threshold. The bloc's members believe that fragmented parties will struggle to secure enough mandates, making cooperation essential.

Meanwhile, former Likud members Gilad Erdan and Yuli Edelstein have announced a new party, aiming to attract voters from the current coalition who are reluctant to support it again. Their move adds to the dynamic within the "unity bloc" or "state-right," which includes some members who previously belonged to the change bloc, such as Yoaz Hendel and Hili Tropper.

All partners agree that with only five weeks left until the candidate list submission deadline, additional mergers will be crucial to avoid falling below the electoral threshold on election day. The negotiations between Gantz and Shaked continue as the political landscape shifts ahead of the vote.