Israel’s political landscape continues to shift ahead of the country’s upcoming general election, with the Reservists Party announcing a new alliance between its leader, former communications minister Yoaz Hendel, and former culture and sports minister Chili Tropper.
The partnership is expected to form the foundation of a broader political movement aimed at contesting the next election and shaping Israel’s future governing coalition.
New Alliance Targets a Broad Zionist Coalition
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Reservists Party confirmed that Hendel and Tropper will campaign together under a shared political framework.
According to the party, the partnership is intended to help build what it described as a “broad Zionist government,” positioning itself as a unifying force within Israel’s center-right and centrist political landscape.
Party officials also indicated that the agreement represents only the first stage of a larger political initiative, adding that further announcements regarding the alliance are expected in the coming weeks.
Tropper Charts a New Political Course
The announcement follows Tropper’s decision earlier this year to leave the Blue and White Party, ending his association with the political movement led by Benny Gantz.
When announcing his departure in May, Tropper said he planned to consult with various political figures before determining the next phase of his political career and exploring opportunities to establish a new electoral platform.
His decision now appears to have culminated in a partnership with Hendel as both politicians prepare for the national vote.
Failed Hendel-Gantz Talks Paved the Way
The new alliance also follows reports that previous discussions between Hendel and Benny Gantz about political cooperation failed to produce an agreement.
According to reports, negotiations broke down over differing positions on whether any future governing coalition should include Israel’s haredi political parties.
With those talks collapsing, Hendel has instead chosen to align with Tropper as both seek to build an alternative political bloc.
Fresh Setback for Benny Gantz
Tropper’s departure adds to a series of political setbacks for Gantz and the Blue and White Party.
In recent months, several lawmakers have also left Gantz’s political camp to join the Yashar party, headed by former military chief Gadi Eisenkot, who previously served as Gantz’s close political ally.
The continued departures have fueled speculation about the future strength of Blue and White ahead of the election campaign.
Eisenkot Welcomes the Partnership
Gadi Eisenkot was among the first senior political figures to publicly respond to the announcement, offering his congratulations to Tropper following confirmation of the alliance.
Describing Tropper as an experienced and unifying leader, Eisenkot expressed confidence that he would play a significant role in efforts to rebuild political consensus in Israel.
He also voiced support for the creation of what he described as a responsible Zionist government capable of bringing the country together and restoring stability.
Election Countdown Intensifies
Israel is expected to hold its next general election no later than October 27, leaving political parties only a limited window to finalize alliances, recruit candidates, and strengthen their electoral platforms.
As negotiations continue across the political spectrum, the Hendel-Tropper partnership signals that further realignments could emerge before voters head to the polls, potentially reshaping the balance of power in the next Knesset.
