Yoav Segalovich Officially Quits Yesh Atid Amid Ra'am Coalition Talks

Yoav Segalovich, a member of the Knesset and former Deputy Minister of Public Security, announced his official departure from the Yesh Atid party on Thursday. He expressed gratitude to party leader Yair Lapid, his colleagues, and activists for their partnership and trust, wishing success to Yesh Atid and the Together party in their continued efforts for Israeli citizens. Segalovich did not declare joining another party but is currently exploring a new path, deciding it was inappropriate to use his Knesset mandate from Yesh Atid at this time. His exit was coordinated respectfully with Lapid, who thanked him for his service and praised his integrity and professionalism, especially in combating crime during the change government.

Recent reports suggested Segalovich might join the Ra'am party led by Mansour Abbas and run in a realistic spot in upcoming elections. Right-wing factions viewed this as a move to facilitate Ra'am’s coalition inclusion, while members of the opposition bloc saw it as an attempt to create distance between Ra'am and other Arab parties. The decision was made behind the scenes with Lapid’s knowledge.

Segalovich, 67, previously headed the police investigations division during high-profile probes of senior public figures, including former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert. Elected to the Knesset on Yesh Atid’s list, he served as Deputy Minister of Public Security, leading efforts against crime in Arab society by coordinating multiple government ministries. However, his program was canceled by Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir shortly after the current government was formed.