Erdan confirms talks with Gantz on possible election alliance

Gilad Erdan, chairman of the Unity Party, has confirmed ongoing discussions with Benny Gantz, chairman of the Blue and White party, regarding a potential merger ahead of Israel's upcoming general election. Erdan stated that he is actively engaged in talks with Gantz's party, emphasizing his openness to forming alliances that can pass the electoral threshold and offer a viable alternative to the current political landscape.

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We are in talks with Benny Gantz’s Blue and White party.

Erdan articulated his motivation for pursuing these partnerships, stating, "I did not establish a party and leave 30 years in Likud to deal with personal matters. I want to fix the things Likud is not doing well." He expressed a willingness to collaborate with various political figures, including Ofer Winter, Yoaz Hendel, and Hili Tropper, provided policy lines align. Erdan stressed his commitment to the right-wing ideology, stating, "I am a man of the right, I am not willing to support a government that advances things that contradict my beliefs."

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Once several parties join together and the connection between them passes the electoral threshold, people will start thinking deeply about what this gives us.

Benny Gantz corroborated the discussions, describing a lengthy and serious conversation with Erdan. He confirmed that while no agreements have been reached, the parties are exploring common ground. Gantz also voiced criticism of proposals for a narrow coalition government, arguing that both previous "change" governments and purely right-wing administrations have proven unsuccessful. He called for a broad "bloc of the people of Israel" and welcomed potential partners who promote unity, though he noted that some figures, like Feiglin, are not realistic options.

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I did not establish a party and leave 30 years in Likud to deal with personal matters. I want to fix the things Likud is not doing well.

Both leaders expressed a desire for an election campaign focused on substantive messages rather than personal rivalries. Erdan concluded by identifying Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran as the true enemies, rather than the domestic political opposition. The ongoing dialogue between Erdan and Gantz signals a potential realignment of political forces as Israel approaches its next election.

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I have no ego about this matter. I preferred not my political security, but rather to leave and try to convince the public to think deeply about what is best for them.