Gideon Sa’ar’s Return to Likud: A Unified Right Wing

What’s happening?

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has announced the reintegration of his New Hope party into Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud. This follows his departure five years prior after a leadership challenge against Netanyahu. This decision emerges with the goal of strengthening the right-wing bloc in Israeli politics once more.

Why it matters

This development represents a significant consolidation of right-wing support in Israeli politics, especially after the devastating Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. The merger could strategically enhance Likud’s influence and ensure a stronger, unified response to external security threats.

Between the lines

Sa’ar, expressing enduring commitment to right-wing ideals, emphasized the need to focus on ensuring Israel’s security and future, especially when facing serious threats. This move underscores recent polling challenging New Hope’s electoral viability, seemingly prompting this timely reunion with Likud.

What they’re saying

Gideon Sa’ar noted on social media that his interpersonal differences with Netanyahu are minor compared to the existential threats faced by Israel. He echoed Likud founding sentiments about unity and strategically returning to a political platform aligning with his life’s work.

The bigger picture

This union needs formal approval from Likud’s secretariat and central committee, overcoming the August 2021 resolution against New Hope members in Likud. Notably, this strengthens Likud electorally and logistically as it absorbs New Hope officials and members.

Looking ahead

While Likud will integrate Sa’ar’s constituents and manage some of the party’s financial burdens, Sa’ar will have key influence over electoral candidates and committee positions. Questions remain about integration details — like the reserved spots for prominent New Hope figures on electoral lists — observed keenly by political analysts.

What’s next

The next Israeli election, slated for 2026, will display the practical outcomes of this merger. Already identified, individuals such as Ze’ev Elkin, are poised for significant roles under Likud’s banner. This realignment suggests future political strategy heavily geared toward overcoming any internal division to focus on robust governance against security threats.

This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.