Olympic Medalist Oren Smadja Joins Gilad Erdan’s New Unity Party
How 8 Israeli newsrooms covered this story — translated into English and compared side by side.
First reported by Walla · Aug 12, 2026
What happened
Olympic medalist Oren Smadja joined Gilad Erdan’s new Unity Party, emphasizing the need for national unity over political divisions. Smadja, who lost his son in combat, cited his belief in responsible right-wing values and service to Israel as reasons for joining. Despite notable members like Yuli Edelstein and Aliza Bloch, the party still faces challenges in polls ahead of the next election.
- 01Olympic medalist Oren Smadja joins Gilad Erdan’s Unity Party.
- 02Smadja lost his son Omer in combat and stresses unity over political disputes.
- 03He supports Erdan’s right-wing, service-oriented political approach.
- 04Party includes former MK Yuli Edelstein and ex-mayor Aliza Bloch.
- 05Recent polls show the party below the electoral threshold.
- 06New members aim to improve the party’s chances in the next Knesset election.
Summary translated & synthesized from the sources below by baba. Read each original for the full report.
Full coverage · 8 outlets
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