Spirit of Zionism alliance splits over a possible Netanyahu government

The alliance, which according to polls does not cross minimum threshold needed to enter next Knesset, feuded over whether to support a narrow Netanyahu-led coalition, if one is possible, after the November 1 elections
Moran Azulay, Yuval Karmi|
The Spirit of Zionism political alliance announced Sunday that it was breaking up, just five days ahead of the deadline to submit Knesset candidates to the election committee.
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  • The alliance, headed by Yamina leader Ayelet Shaked and Derekh Eretz chief Yoaz Hendel, split after the latter said he could not support joining a narrow coalition led by opposition leader Benjamin Netanyahu, should one be formed following the November 1 elections.
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    יועז הנדל, איילת דקד
    יועז הנדל, איילת דקד
    Ayelet Shaked, Yoaz Hendel
    (Photo: Yoav Dudkevitch)
    Recent polling showed the alliance was short of the number of Knesset seats needed to pass the electoral threshold.
    It was formed with an intent to attract right-wing voters who did not support Netanyahu or his partnership with the far-right.
    "I intend to continue to lead the Spirit of Zionism, the only sane right-wing option," Hendel said. "To fight for our principles…and represent Israelis who do not want a government led by Netanyahu, with [far-right] Itamar Ben Gvir, and who seek a wide unity government," he said.
    2 View gallery
    בנימין נתניהו
    בנימין נתניהו
    Benjamin Netanyahu
    (Photo: Shaul Golan)
    As a former close aid of the Likud leader, Hendel positioned himself in what he called the "liberal right-wing," rejecting Likud's combative stance against the legal system, which Netanyahu has promoted since his legal troubles began. Netanyahu is on trial for bribery, fraud and breach of trust - charges which he denies.
    Shaked said Hendel's position to prefer an additional round of elections, should the political impasse remain after November, over the establishment of a narrow right-wing coalition was irresponsible.
    "Hendel is still a captive of the anti-Netanyahu camp," Shaked said. "That hate is causing instability in the country," she said.
    Neither Netanyahu nor the center-left parties which oppose him will be able to form a coalition, if polling numbers are to be believed, with 61 required Knesset seats.
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