Full Breakdown
Bennett and Lapid Form “Together” Party to Challenge Netanyahu
4/28/2026, 5:01:23 AM
New “Together” Party Announced
On 26-27 April 2026, former prime ministers Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid announced the merger of Bennett 2026 and Yesh Atid into a single party called “Together” (Hebrew Yachad/Beyahad). Bennett will lead the list, which will contest the election due by October 2026 and aims to unseat Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Background and Political Context
Their 2021 coalition ended Netanyahu’s twelve-year rule but fell after 18 months, partly over disputes with the United Arab List. Since then, Netanyahu’s government has been criticised for handling the 2023 Hamas attack, regional conflicts, a disclosed malignant prostate tumour, and ongoing corruption and judicial-reform controversies.
Key Figures
Naftali Bennett, 54, is a former army commando and tech entrepreneur who served as prime minister in 2021 and opposes a Palestinian state. Yair Lapid, 62, is a former TV news anchor, founder of Yesh Atid, and a vocal advocate for military-service and tax reforms.
Poll Data and Seat Projections
An N12 News poll (23 April) gave Bennett 21 seats, Netanyahu 25, and Lapid 7. A Maariv poll tied Bennett with Netanyahu at 24 seats, gave Lapid 7 and Eisenkot 12. Together, the bloc could reach at least 60 seats, ahead of Netanyahu’s estimated 50-seat coalition.
Implications for Israeli Politics
If “Together” wins a plurality, it could end Netanyahu’s tenure, reshape coalition arithmetic and likely exclude Arab parties, reflecting Bennett’s “Zionist-only” stance. The alliance also pushes for military-service reforms and a tougher posture toward Iran, Hezbollah and Hamas.
Official Statements and Responses
Bennett said the merger marks a new chapter for Israel, stressing unity and a break from Netanyahu’s rule. Lapid described the partnership as a safeguard for children and a call for national direction. Netanyahu replied on Telegram, noting the duo’s past success and warning they may repeat it.
Criticism and Opposition
Analyst Nimrod Flaschenberg warned that Netanyahu’s resilience remains high despite Bennett’s lead. Former Netanyahu aide and pollster Mitchell Barak recalled the 2021 coalition’s achievements but noted its collapse. Bennett’s refusal to include Arab parties and his comment that “they are not children – they are terrorists” have drawn criticism from pro-peace groups.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
Sources differ on Bennett’s projected seats (21 versus 24) and on the party’s exact Hebrew name (Yachad, Together, Beyahad). Eisenkot’s participation remains unconfirmed, and Netanyahu’s health details were only partially disclosed, leaving uncertainty about their electoral impact.
Verbatim Quotes
- “the era of polarization is over.” — Naftali Bennett
- “We are standing here together for the sake of our children. The state of Israel must change direction,” — Yair Lapid
- “After 30 years it is time to part with Netanyahu and open a new chapter for Israel,” — Naftali Bennett
- “They did it once, they’ll do it again,” — Benjamin Netanyahu
What’s Next
The election must be held by the end of October 2026. Bennett has invited Eisenkot to join the list, while polling continues to track voter shifts. Campaigns will focus on military-service reforms, security policy, and the broader challenge to Netanyahu’s governance.
