Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly renewing efforts to merge the Religious Zionism and Otzma Yehudit parties under one list, after appearing to accept a separate run last month. According to a report by journalist Stein, Netanyahu's aides see Religious Zionism gaining strength at Otzma Yehudit's expense. Ben Gvir refuses and argues Smotrich drives away Haredi voters.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly renewing his push to merge the Religious Zionism and Otzma Yehudit parties into a single electoral list, according to a report by journalist Stein. The move comes after a month in which Netanyahu appeared to have accepted the two parties would run separately. The reason cited is a perceived shift: Netanyahu's circle sees Religious Zionism gaining strength at Otzma Yehudit's expense.
As The Zioneer reported on July 4, Netanyahu had previously been working to merge the two factions to prevent wasted votes. On July 5, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir confirmed they would not run together, arguing that 'to win, you need to run on two heads.' A Channel 14 poll on July 16 showed Religious Zionism gaining while Likud weakened.
Ben Gvir continues to resist the merger, arguing that Smotrich's slate drives away Haredi voters. The renewed effort underscores the fluid negotiations within the religious-Zionist camp ahead of the next election.
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