Haskel launches right-wing Israel First political party

Former deputy foreign minister Sharren Haskel announced the launch of her new right-wing political party, Israel First, on Wednesday. This move follows her resignation due to controversial legislation freezing the arrests of ultra-Orthodox draft evaders, which she called “morally wrong.” Haskel stated that “the old political order has, to this day, prioritized sectoral interests over our fighters on the front lines.” The party aims to represent Zionists who believe in a security, national, and liberal right-wing and refuse compromises at the expense of those who serve. Israel First's principles include strong security, a free economy, education for excellence, expanded civil liberties, and Zionist unity in governance, targeting voters who feel unrepresented by current leadership.