Hili Tropper and Yoaz Hendel announce joint election run

Former ministers Hili Tropper and Yoaz Hendel have finalized an agreement to run together in the upcoming elections, marking the first major unification within the so-called "third bloc" of Israeli politics. During a joint press conference held Tuesday evening, the two leaders presented their vision for a new political home aimed at Israelis who feel unrepresented by the current political landscape, specifically targeting reservists and those active in national service.

A New Zionist Home

Tropper, formerly of the National Unity party, and Hendel, who leads the "Reservists Party," described the move as an effort to create a "broad Zionist government." Tropper stated during the announcement that the time has come for a "new language" and a "new generation of leadership" that acts with civility. He emphasized that the party seeks to be a home for all Israelis who wish to work together and serve the state, declaring that "the time for something new has arrived."

Focus on Service and Burden-Sharing

The platform of the joint list appears heavily focused on the issue of equal burden-sharing, a recurring theme for both politicians. Hendel has previously been vocal in his opposition to legislation that would grant exemptions from military service, arguing that those who pay the price of national defense must have a seat at the decision-making table. Reports indicate that the list may include other public figures such as Shira Shapira, mother of the late Aner Shapira, and Elisaf Peretz, signaling an emphasis on national resilience and the "reservist spirit."

Political Context and Outlook

This alliance follows weeks of speculation regarding various mergers in the center-right and centrist camps. While earlier reports suggested Hendel might join a list led by Benny Gantz and Dedi Smakhi, those talks reportedly stalled due to significant gaps. The Tropper-Hendel union now positions itself as an independent Zionist alternative. Analysts suggest the party will attempt to draw voters from both the traditional center and the liberal-religious right who are dissatisfied with the current coalition's handling of wartime domestic issues.