Israeli Politics

Erdan: Won't Sit in Such a Government

The Ha'achdut party leader criticized rival Chili Tropper's pledge to exclude Netanyahu, saying only his party can form a broad unity government

Gila Isaacson, Srugim

AUG 18, 2026 16:30

2 min read

Gilad Erdan, leader of the Ha'achdut party, responded Tuesday to statements by Knesset member Chili Tropper, head of the HaBayit HaTzioni (National Home) party, who had promised not to join a government led by Benjamin Netanyahu.

Erdan sharply criticized Tropper's position, stating: "Now things are clear: a vote for Tropper means you get Yair Golan. Only the Ha'achdut party will refuse to sit in any narrow government, and will instead bring about the formation of a broad unity government from both blocs. Those who want real unity, authentic right-wing values, and genuine conscription reform will find them only with us."

The Religious Zionism party, led by Bezalel Smotrich, also issued a harsh response to Tropper's declaration. In a statement, the party said: "This is what Tropper and Hendel's fake unity looks like, announcing they're boycotting Religious Zionism members and over a million Likud voters who see Prime Minister Netanyahu as their candidate for head of government.

"In practice, Tropper is holding a gun to the head of the national camp, saying: either Netanyahu is pushed aside, or I'll install Yair Golan as defense minister and Naama Lazimi in the cabinet. This isn't unity. This is baseless hatred and a return to the divisive boycotts of October 6th."

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