Avi Maoz Launches New Phase for Noam LeIsrael to Unite Right-Wing Camp
Avi Maoz, chairman of the Noam LeIsrael party, is embarking on a renewed political effort ahead of the upcoming elections, aiming to broaden the right-wing camp beyond its current voter base. In an interview with Channel 7, Maoz outlined his vision to connect various segments of the national camp, including religious Zionists, Haredim, and traditional communities, particularly in the periphery. He expressed confidence in securing at least four Knesset seats, emphasizing that the goal is to strengthen the right-wing bloc rather than fragment it.
Maoz dismissed concerns that his candidacy might split right-wing votes, arguing that the real question is how to push the right-wing bloc beyond 60 mandates. He highlighted that between five and ten Knesset seats worth of voters currently do not support existing right-wing parties, and Noam LeIsrael aims to attract these voters. The party's name change from "Noam" to "Noam LeIsrael" symbolizes its openness to new audiences, supported by recent additions such as Beersheba Deputy Mayor Shimon Tubul and Eliyahu Leibman.
Education is a central focus for Maoz, who criticized the neglect of this sector by right-wing parties. He called for a deep reform of the public education system, including equal funding for all children and opening school registration zones to allow parents to choose schools aligned with their values. Maoz also stressed the need for transparency regarding school curricula, a measure he unsuccessfully tried to promote in the previous Knesset.
Addressing the sensitive issue of military conscription and relations between the Haredi and religious Zionist communities, Maoz advocated for bridge-building amid rising tensions. He supports exemption from military service for Torah scholars but insists that those not engaged in Torah study should serve, with the IDF accommodating religious lifestyles. Maoz highlighted his participation in a Haredi protest against sanctions on yeshiva students as a rare gesture from a religious Zionist MK, underscoring his commitment to uniting these communities.
Maoz reaffirmed his dedication to the right-wing bloc, stating his mission is to save and reconnect it around shared values such as Jewish tradition, identity, and faith in the State of Israel. He hinted at further expansion of the Noam LeIsrael list with new members joining, aiming to represent a broader constituency and bring fresh momentum to the national camp.
