Right-Wing Parties Urged to Unite to Avoid Losing Votes in Upcoming Israeli Elections

A recent poll highlights the risks for small right-wing parties in Israel running separately and the potential benefits of a joint run. The poll, conducted between August 12 and 13, 2026, by Lazar Research in cooperation with Panel4All.co.il, surveyed 700 Jewish Israeli adults and showed that both the "Liman Tzion" party led by Ayelet Shaked and the "HaBayit HaTzioni" party led by Yoaz Hendel and Hili Tropper each received about 3% of the vote, below the 3.25% electoral threshold. However, when factoring in undecided voters, both parties could secure four Knesset seats each.

The poll also tested a hypothetical joint list between Shaked's "Liman Tzion" and Hendel and Tropper's "HaBayit HaTzioni," which garnered 5.8% of the vote, potentially translating to eight seats after including undecided voters. This suggests that a unified right-wing Zionist list could surpass the threshold more comfortably and strengthen their parliamentary presence.

The article stresses that the 2022 attempt at a joint run between Shaked and Hendel failed over disagreements about cooperating with the Likud party if it leads the largest bloc. Shaked was open to it, while Hendel opposed. Analysts warn that if the numerous small right-wing parties run separately, many could fail to cross the threshold, risking significant loss of right-wing seats and potentially enabling a government led by Benny Gantz with support from left-wing and Arab parties.

Both Shaked and the "HaBayit HaTzioni" leaders express willingness to join a broad Zionist government that includes Likud but excludes ultra-Orthodox parties. They agree on the need for a government based on Zionist principles and are prepared to participate in a unity government with rotation leadership if it reflects the popular vote. The article also suggests exploring cooperation with Gilad Erdan's "HaAchdut" party as a possible lifesaver for the state.

In summary, the poll and political analysis underscore the urgent need for right-wing Zionist parties to unite ahead of the elections to avoid vote fragmentation and maximize their influence in forming the next government.