Gilad Erdan says Unity Party weighs alliances, seeks broad government without radicals - interview
Erdan said that showing voters “a few parties together that are already above the political threshold” could “give a real boost” to support, as voters would know “the vote is not going to be wasted.”
The newly established Unity Party, led by former UN ambassador Gilad Erdan, is exploring potential alliances to strengthen its prospects of meeting the electoral threshold ahead of the upcoming deadline, according to an interview with The Jerusalem Post. Erdan expressed optimism that presenting the electorate with multiple parties already surpassing the threshold could encourage voting for Unity, as it would signal a higher probability of their efforts not being in vain.
Recent polls have shown the Unity Party struggling on its own to clear the electoral threshold, leading to speculation that Erdan is considering mergers with parties such as Blue and White leader Benny Gantz or Zionist Home-The Reservists party Zionist Home-The Reservists party. Both of these parties have also fallen below the threshold in recent polls.
Erdan and his running mate, Yuli Edelstein, are both former members of Likud, and the party promotes itself as a right-wing coalition advocating for universal IDF conscription.
In light of growing tensions surrounding haredi conscription and dissatisfaction among right-wing voters with the current government, Erdan argues for the necessity of a broad coalition capable of uniting both sides of the political spectrum. He expressed confidence that there are many Israelis tired of divisions within narrow governments and the "toppling" of one side by the other.
Erdan emphasized that division does not lead to any genuine solutions and hinders the daily lives of Israelis, especially those facing extended military duty, high living costs, and the absence of judicial reform.
When asked about joining a government led by Netanyahu, Erdan stated that Unity Party is seeking unity, regardless of the political spectrum, emphasizing the need for bridging and unifying the two sides after the October 7 terror attack. He further clarified that the party would not support a government with radical parties exerting undue influence, outlining principles like no withdrawals, no Palestinian state, and a conscription law that grants benefits only to those serving two years or more.
Erdan also highlighted the importance of addressing issues such as the cost of living, judicial reform, and national service, asserting that political stability would enable a government less prone to blackmail.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
