A new generation of political voices is beginning to emerge in Israel as the country prepares for its October general election, with 23-year-old activist and army reservist Yonatan Shalev positioning himself as a representative of young Israelis seeking change after the October 7 attacks.
If elected, he would become the youngest member ever to serve in the Israeli parliament.
Campaign Built Around the Post-October 7 Generation
Shalev says his decision to enter politics is driven by a belief that Israel’s younger generation deserves greater representation in national decision-making.
According to him, many young people who served in the military and experienced the consequences of the conflict firsthand are focused less on assigning blame and more on finding practical solutions for the country’s future.
He argues that the generation shaped by recent events understands the country’s current challenges better than those who have dominated politics for decades.
Personal Loss Inspired His Political Journey
Before entering politics, Shalev co-founded Shoulder to Shoulder, an organization representing young Israelis and military reservists.
He revealed that the death of a close friend during the war became the turning point that motivated him to launch the movement, believing the younger generation should take a more active role in shaping Israel’s future through innovation and leadership.
Push for Mandatory Military Service Reform
One of Shalev’s central policy goals is expanding compulsory national service.
He has been an outspoken advocate for legislation requiring ultra-Orthodox Israelis to serve in the military, arguing that the current system places an unfair burden on those already serving.
His organization has also criticized legislation supported by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition, claiming it contributes to draft avoidance at a time when the military faces manpower shortages.
Why He Chose Naftali Bennett’s Political Alliance
Shalev decided to join former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett’s Together Party, saying he believes Bennett offers the strongest platform for national unity and generational renewal.
He praised Bennett’s previous tenure in office, describing it as a period of reduced political division and greater cooperation across different sections of Israeli society.
Shalev also believes Bennett is capable of bridging ideological, religious and generational differences within the country.
Backing the Bennett-Lapid Partnership
Although recent opinion polls suggest the Together alliance has lost ground to rival opposition parties, Shalev insists the partnership between Bennett and former Prime Minister Yair Lapid remains a significant political asset.
He credited Lapid with maintaining the opposition during the war while expressing confidence that the alliance still has time to improve its electoral standing before Israelis vote later this year.
Proposed Reforms Focus on Veterans and National Service
If elected, Shalev says one of his first priorities would be introducing a new national service law.
Under his proposal, Israelis who complete military or national service would receive expanded government support, including assistance with purchasing a first home and additional benefits for reservists.
At the same time, he wants to reduce or eliminate state funding for individuals who avoid mandatory service while encouraging greater integration of ultra-Orthodox recruits into the armed forces.
Broader Vision for Israel’s Future
Beyond military reform, Shalev says a Bennett-led government would seek an official inquiry into the failures surrounding the October 7 attacks immediately upon taking office.
He also supports introducing civil marriage in Israel while maintaining opposition to the creation of a Palestinian state.
On the West Bank, he argues that security must remain a priority while reducing tensions and addressing violence.
He further says a future Bennett government would encourage more Jews living abroad to immigrate to Israel.
Young Candidate Believes Change Starts With New Leadership
As the election campaign gathers momentum, Shalev maintains that Israel’s future depends on giving younger leaders a greater role in government.
He says his goal is to help create policies that allow his generation to thrive while contributing to a more united and secure Israel in the years ahead.
