Hendel warns Israel's political deadlock could trigger another election

Yoaz Hendel, leader of the Reservists-New Economic Party, warned that Israel faces a deadlock between two opposing political blocs, which may lead to a second round of elections. The right-wing bloc, anchored by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, includes haredi factions, while the opposing bloc, led by Gadi Eisenkot, comprises Arab parties. Hendel insists that a viable solution is a Zionist government that excludes anti-Zionist ultra-Orthodox groups and Arab parties that do not recognize Hamas as a terrorist organization.

His party is prepared to join any such coalition, emphasizing policies such as universal military service and reducing the cost of living. He also noted that Netanyahu is not the primary factor in one outlet crisis. The statement came less than a day before voting opened for the upcoming election.