Elazar Stern Resigns From Knesset After 11 Years With Yesh Atid

Elazar Stern announced his resignation from the Knesset after serving 11 years as a member representing the Yesh Atid party. He informed Yesh Atid chairman Yair Lapid of his decision on Friday. Lapid acknowledged Stern's significant contributions to the party and the formation of the government, where Stern also served as a minister. Lapid expressed gratitude for their long-standing friendship and partnership and wished Stern success in his future endeavors.

Stern's resignation raises questions about his political future, with speculation that he may join a new political framework led by Gadi Eisenkot. Stern is a retired IDF Major General who completed his military service in 2008. He has been active in public service, including chairing the Welfare Fund for Holocaust Survivors and the Ethiopian National Project. He published an autobiography in 2009.

Stern began his parliamentary career in 2012 with Tnua, led by Tzipi Livni, and later joined Yesh Atid before the 20th Knesset elections. During his tenure, he held various parliamentary roles, including membership in key committees and chairing the State Audit Committee. In 2021, he was appointed Minister of Intelligence. He was also nominated to chair the Jewish Agency but withdrew amid controversy over comments made during his military tenure. Stern later won a defamation lawsuit related to the incident. He was elected again to the 25th Knesset, placed seventh on Yesh Atid's list.