Poised to become Israel's youngest MK, Yonatan Shalev wants the October 7 generation to lead

Yonatan Shalev, 23, is poised to become Israel's youngest-ever lawmaker, joining former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett's Together Party. Shalev aims to represent the younger generation in the Knesset, focusing on solutions post-October 7. He co-founded Shoulder to Shoulder, an organization advocating for universal conscription and haredi enlistment, stating, “When he was murdered, I understood that I wanted to do something big.” Shalev believes young people in politics will lead to more solutions and innovation. He chose Bennett's party due to Bennett's perceived ability to unite diverse segments of Israeli society and his comprehensive plans for governance, including a state commission of inquiry into October 7, civil marriage, and ensuring Israel will not cede territory for a Palestinian state. The party also plans to prioritize those who serve in the military through benefits and cut funding for draft evaders.