The Reservists Party, led by former communications minister Yoaz Hendel, announced on Tuesday that it had reached an agreement with former culture and sports minister Chili Tropper to run together in a political alliance ahead of the upcoming elections.
The party stated that the two would run together to lead toward the formation of “a broad Zionist government.”
“The move marks the first step toward creating a significant new Zionist political force. Additional details will be provided later,” the party added.
Tropper announced in May that he would leave the Blue and White Party, led by Benny Gantz, and would hold consultations with political figures to determine his next steps in developing a new framework ahead of the elections.
The alliance also comes after a merger between Hendel and Gantz reportedly fell through due to disagreements over forming a coalition with the haredi parties.
Another blow to Gantz, Blue and White
Tropper’s departure from Gantz marked another blow to the Blue and White leader after a series of departures by lawmakers who are now members of the Yashar party led by Gadi Eisenkot - once Gantz’s second in command.
Eisenkot immediately welcomed Tropper’s alliance with the Reseverts Party, stating that he congratulated “his friend Chili Tropper.”
He added that Tropper “is a unifying and experienced leader who deserves to play a central role in the process of rebuilding that Israel needs, and to be an important voice in the Zionist statesmanlike government that we will establish - one that will unite the people and return Israel to the right path.”
General elections are set to take place no later than October 27.