Naftali Bennett Adds Northern Israel Representative Nissan Zaabi to Party List

Naftali Bennett, chairman of the Yachdav party, announced on Tuesday the addition of Nissan Zaabi from Kibbutz Kfar Giladi to the party's candidate list for the 26th Knesset. Zaabi, a third-generation settler near the Lebanon border, has been a prominent advocate for restoring security and development in northern Israel. He founded the movements 'Habaita - Returning to the Galilee' and 'Lobby 1701' to represent northern residents' interests.

Zaabi has served over 400 days in reserve duty since October 7, during which his family was evacuated from their home due to security threats. He has also worked as a senior advisor to several Israeli ministers and Knesset members and held executive roles in investment and innovation sectors. Bennett praised Zaabi as a fighter and entrepreneur who has inspired resilience in the north and will help rebuild trust and security for its residents.

Zaabi explained his decision to join Bennett's party by citing the government's detachment from the Galilee region and his desire to influence decision-making directly. He emphasized the need for experienced leadership with practical plans, highlighting Bennett's readiness to implement solutions for the north. Zaabi aims to be the voice of northern Israelis, restore hope, strengthen borders, and rebuild their communities.

This recruitment follows recent additions to Bennett's list, including former Communications Minister Eitan Ginzburg and tech entrepreneur Mati Gil, as part of efforts to strengthen the party with experienced figures. Separately, Hili Tropper declared he would not join a government led by Benjamin Netanyahu.

The move underscores Bennett's strategy to consolidate a team capable of addressing security and development challenges in Israel's northern border areas amid ongoing tensions.