Netanyahu Rivals Bennett and Lapid Announce Joint Ticket

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s main political rivals, former prime ministers Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid, have announced a joint ticket ahead of upcoming elections, aiming to unite the opposition and unseat the current government.

The new alliance, named Together, will be led by Bennett, according to the agreement. Lapid, the current opposition leader, said the partnership is intended to overcome divisions within the opposition and focus on winning the election. The two previously cooperated in 2021, when they succeeded in ending Netanyahu’s 12-year tenure.

Polls suggest Bennett could emerge as Netanyahu’s main challenger, with his bloc potentially securing a parliamentary majority. However, Netanyahu remains a strong contender despite criticism following the Hamas attack in 2023.

The opposition has criticized the government over security failures and domestic issues, including disputes over military service. Netanyahu’s Likud party depends on support from religious Zionist allies who oppose conscription for Torah students.

The outcome of elections due by the end of October remains uncertain. Likud has already begun circulating election campaign material portraying Bennett and Lapid as aligned with United Arab List leader Mansour Abbas.

(reuters, sab)