Former PM Naftali Bennett Welcomes Northern Leader Nissan Zaabi to Yachd Party

Former Israeli Prime Minister and Yachd party chairman Naftali Bennett announced the addition of Nissan Zaabi, a prominent northern activist and founder of Lobby 1701, to his political team on Tuesday. Zaabi, a member of Kibbutz Kfar Giladi near the Lebanon border, has served over 400 days of reserve duty since October 7, while his family was evacuated from their home due to security threats. He has been a leading figure in efforts to restore security and develop the northern region following recent conflicts.

Yachd described Zaabi as a third-generation pioneer of Galilee settlement who founded the "Home - Returning to Galilee" movement during the war. He has extensive public service experience, having advised ministers and Knesset members, and later held senior management roles in investment and innovation sectors. Bennett praised Zaabi as a fighter and entrepreneur who has inspired resilience in the north and will contribute to the party's mission to repair the state.

In his statement, Zaabi emphasized his motivation to enter politics after years of frontline service and government neglect of the north. He said, "It is time to enter the arena, represent the front line where decisions about our future are made, and care for Galilee from within." He expressed confidence in Bennett's leadership and commitment to restoring hope, strengthening borders, and rebuilding their home.

Meanwhile, Hili Tropper, chairman of the Zionist Home-Militarists party and former minister, issued a firm declaration via social media that his party will not join a government led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of the October elections.