Ben Gvir Rejects Netanyahu’s Call to Unite With Smotrich

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on Otzma Yehudit leader Itamar Ben Gvir and Religious Zionism chairman Bezalel Smotrich to run together, warning that a split could waste right-wing votes. Ben Gvir rejected the proposal, saying his polling showed a joint ticket would cost Otzma Yehudit three to four seats and arguing that Smotrich should instead run with Ofer Winter. Netanyahu replied that a technical bloc would strengthen the right. Smotrich urged unity, while Ben Gvir's aides said the proposed alliance would not happen.