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๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฑ Israel /Elections & Politics

Edelstein, Shaked approached about party targeting dissatisfied right-wing, modern Orthodox voters

From Jerusalem Post · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Rabbis and public leaders are reportedly approaching MK Yuli Edelstein and former minister Ayelet Shaked about forming a new political party.
  • The proposed party would target right-wing voters dissatisfied with the current coalition and modern Orthodox Israelis not aligned with the Religious Zionist Party.
  • The initiative aims to unite different constituencies on the right and center-right ahead of the next election, with Shaked offering a cryptic response when asked about her potential candidacy.

MK Yuli Edelstein and former justice minister Ayelet Shaked have reportedly been approached by religious community leaders and public figures to discuss the formation of a new political framework. Sources familiar with the matter suggest this initiative aims to create a party appealing to mainstream right-wing voters who are disillusioned with the current coalition government.

The proposed party would also seek to attract modern Orthodox Israelis who do not identify with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrichโ€™s Religious Zionist Party. The goal is to establish a new political entity that could unite various right and center-right constituencies in preparation for the upcoming elections.

When questioned about the possibility of running in the next election, Shaked responded enigmatically, telling The Jerusalem Post, "You'll have to wait." Edelstein, meanwhile, has not yet commented on the reports. The discussions come as other right-wing figures, such as Yoaz Hendel and Gilad Erdan, are also exploring the establishment of new parties or alliances to gain electoral traction.

Hendel's Reservist Party is expected to join a political alliance, as it may not pass the electoral threshold independently. Erdan has also announced his intention to form a new right-wing party, aiming to create a movement that "would not rely on extremists." With elections anticipated in October, the political landscape remains fluid, with no clear picture of the final party alignments.

Youโ€™ll have to wait.

โ€” Ayelet ShakedFormer minister Ayelet Shaked's response when asked about her potential participation in the upcoming election.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.