Israeli Parties Submit Knesset Lists Ahead of Elections

The deadline for submitting party lists to the Central Elections Committee for the 26th Knesset has passed, marking the first day of the election campaign. Several parties presented new alliances and diverse slates featuring candidates from security, economy, and public service backgrounds.

The "B" (Bayit Yehudi) party, led by Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid, was the first to submit its unified list, aiming to offer a fresh alternative for young voters and restore hope and stability. Lapid reportedly relinquished the "peh" letters previously associated with his "Yesh Atid" party, signaling its effective dissolution.

A new party, "Yashar!" (Straight!), led by Gadi Eisenkot, submitted its list under the requested letters "Derech" (Way). The party emphasizes gender equality and includes individuals from security, economy, and education sectors. Eisenkot stated the name reflects a commitment to state leadership, responsibility, service, Zionism, and unity in contrast to polarization and irresponsibility.

"HaDemokratim" (The Democrats), headed by Yair Golan, includes Knesset members Naama Lazimi, Gilad Kariv, and Efrat Reiten, alongside activists often associated with the "Kaplan protest." "Yisrael Beiteinu" (Israel Our Home), led by Avigdor Lieberman, submitted a list focusing on reservists and national economic strengthening. MK Oded Forer, representing the party, claimed it was the most diverse list and vowed to redirect funds from those avoiding service to those serving.

"Otzma Yehudit" (Jewish Power), led by Itamar Ben-Gvir, presented a list including incumbent MK Tali Gottlieb and a Haredi representative, Yosef Goldberg. Ben-Gvir expressed pride in the list's diversity, encompassing secular, religious, traditional, and female candidates.

Ofer Winter leads "Amcha Yisrael" (My People Israel), a party launched two weeks prior that aims for a security-focused platform and represents various societal segments. Winter expressed confidence in becoming the election's surprise, promoting a "true right-wing" policy.

Additionally, "HaMiluimnikim VeHaKalkalit" (The Reservists and the Economic), a union of Yoaz Hendel and Yaron Zelekha, focuses on service obligations, reservist support, and economic reforms. Other registered lists include Ra'am (United Arab List), "Yisrael Rishona" led by Sharen Haskel, "Kol HaNashim BeYachad Nitzliah" (All Women Together We Will Succeed), and various niche lists like "New Order," "Justice Law," and "The Pirates."

The Central Elections Committee, chaired by Justice Noam Sohlberg, will review and officially approve all submitted lists and requested letters in the coming days.