Shaked Opts Out of Elections as Netanyahu Faces Likud List Decisions
Ayelet Shaked decides not to run in the upcoming Knesset elections. Meanwhile, a new Kan 11 poll shows the Hendel-Zelecha alliance passing the threshold as Likud and BeYachad weaken.
With only 48 hours remaining until the official submission of candidate lists for the 26th Knesset elections, Israel's political landscape is shifting. Former minister Ayelet Shaked has decided not to run in the upcoming elections following the collapse of political talks between Benny Gantz and Gilad Erdan, and the lack of an agreement between Yoaz Hendel and Benny Gantz.
Despite her decision, Likud mayors Benny Biton and Yechiel Zohar have approached Shaked, urging her to register with the Likud party and offering her a reserved spot on the party list. Shaked has not yet made a final decision on whether to join.
Netanyahu's Strategic Dilemma
Inside Likud, members are waiting for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to make crucial decisions regarding reserved spots on the list. Currently, Likud faces a noticeable lack of representation from the religious Zionism sector, Judea and Samaria settlers, and IDF reservists—demographics that are highly visible in rival parties.
One prominent name raised to fill this gap is Yigal Brand, a Likud and Betar activist, religious Zionist, and IDF reserve officer who was wounded in action during the war.
Kan 11 Poll: Shift in the Blocks
A new poll published by Kan 11 reveals the updated political map following recent mergers in the "third block":
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The political alliance between Yoaz Hendel and Yaron Zelecha passes the electoral threshold, entering the Knesset with 4 seats.
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Likud and Naftali Bennett's BeYachad list both show a decline in support.
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The pro-Netanyahu bloc stands at 52 seats.
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The bloc led by Gadi Eisenkot secures 51 seats.
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Arab parties collectively receive 13 seats.
