New Member of Gilad Erdan's Party Supports Arab Representation in Broad Israeli Government

Aliza Bloch, the newest member of Gilad Erdan's party, expressed openness to including Arab representation in a broad Israeli government during an interview with Channel 12 on August 10, 2026. When asked about the possibility of having an Arab party like Ra'am in such a government, Bloch said she does not rule out sitting with Arab parties that support national service for all Arab citizens and recognize Israel as a Jewish and democratic state. She emphasized her desire to be "colorblind" toward children growing up in diverse communities such as Majdal Shams, Isfiya, Rahat, and Herzliya Pituah, stating that everyone who wants to be part of the state and uphold its sovereignty should be included.

Bloch highlighted the importance of moving beyond divisive debates about including ultra-Orthodox or Arab parties, noting that Erdan seeks to form as broad a government as possible. She stressed the urgency of national healing following the October 7 Hamas attack, which she said demonstrated that internal divisions do not protect Israeli citizens from external threats. "If Hamas sees us as one, it is time for us to speak in one language," she said.

Gilad Erdan responded to Bloch's remarks by firmly rejecting any government coalition with Arab parties that support terrorism or refuse to define Hamas as a terrorist organization. He clarified that while there is room in the government for patriotic Arab citizens who support military or national service and acknowledge Israel's Jewish identity, parties like Ra'am and the Joint List, which he labeled as terrorist-supporting, will not be part of any coalition.

The discussion reflects ongoing debates within Israeli politics about the inclusion of Arab parties in government coalitions, especially in the context of national security concerns and efforts to build a broad-based government.