Knesset race takes shape as Eisenkot, Bennett, Winter and Ben Gvir confirm independent runs

Israel's political landscape is taking shape as parties formally submit their candidate lists for the upcoming Knesset elections. Former IDF chief of staff Gadi Eisenkot's Yashar! party submitted its slate, headed by Eisenkot, followed by former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen and other prominent figures. The party aims to offer a "straight path" against polarization. Former prime minister Naftali Bennett's Beyachad was the first to submit its list, requesting the Hebrew letter bet (ב) or resh-kuf (רק). Representatives stated, "We have an execution-oriented list." Former IDF Brig. Gen. Ofer Winter's Amcha Israel party also submitted its slate, confirming an independent run and requesting the final Hebrew letter kaf (ך). Winter stated, "With God’s help, we will be the surprise of the election." Itamar Ben Gvir's Otzma Yehudit also filed its slate, headed by Ben Gvir, and requested the letter bet (ב), potentially leading to a dispute with Bennett's party over the ballot symbol. Other parties, including Yisrael Beytenu and The Reservists and the Economic Party, also submitted their lists. The Central Elections Committee will review all submissions.