MK Elazar Stern Leaves Yesh Atid, Plans to Resign from Knesset

MK Elazar Stern announced his departure from the Yesh Atid party and his intention to resign from the Knesset in the near future. Stern, who has served as a Knesset member for Yesh Atid since 2015, sent his resignation letter to party chairman MK Yair Lapid. In his letter, Stern described Yesh Atid as a political home that allowed him to express his views, particularly his belief in strengthening Israel's Jewish and democratic character in a unifying way. He also highlighted the party's shared stance on the conscription law and praised the respectful and attentive discourse within the party despite occasional disagreements.

Stern expressed appreciation for the dedicated and professional colleagues he found in Yesh Atid, calling them not only faction members but lifelong friends. He noted that it had long been clear to both him and Lapid that he would not continue with the party after the upcoming elections, but emphasized that their separation process remained respectful. Citing Lapid's words that they were friends before politics and would remain friends afterward, Stern formally announced his farewell from Yesh Atid and his forthcoming resignation from the Knesset.

Despite leaving the party and parliament, Stern did not rule out future political involvement. He expressed optimism about potential future collaborations with Lapid if he remains active in Israeli politics. Stern concluded his letter by thanking Lapid and the party for their shared years. Reports suggest he is expected to join the party of Gadi Eizenkot.