Former PM Naftali Bennett Registers New Party in Anticipation of 2026 Israeli Elections

Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett is preparing for a political comeback, registering a new party as part of his preparations for the next national elections. Bennett, who left politics in 2022 after serving as prime minister for just over a year, is reportedly planning to run for the premiership once again.

On Monday, Bennett’s team confirmed the registration of a political party under the temporary name “Bennett 2026”—a clear sign of his intent to return to the political arena, likely in the lead-up to elections expected next year.

While Bennett has traditionally been positioned on the right of the political spectrum, his future party’s ideological stance remains uncertain.Until now, It appears he will try to focus on the right-wing public disappointed with Netanyahu and the centrist voters seeking a fresh alternative.

Since the start of the war in Gaza, Bennett has largely remained silent, refraining from taking clear positions on divisive national issues. Notably, he has avoided commenting on the controversial hostage release deal, a subject that has deeply divided Israeli society.

However, Bennett’s recent statements suggest that his campaign may focus on one highly sensitive issue: drafting all yeshiva students, is recentstatements indicate.

Recent polls show Bennett receiving as many as 15 seats in the Knesset, positioning him as a serious contender for leadership. His return to politics is expected to draw support away from centrist and secular parties such as those led by Avigdor Lieberman, Benny Gantz, and Yair Lapid. Political analysts believe the Netanyahu bloc would remain largely unaffected.