Esti Ayalon Kovo enters Knesset race to stop Jerusalem’s problems from spreading across Israel

Esti Ayalon Kovo, a former diplomat and Jerusalem resident, has entered the 2026 Knesset race with the B'Yachad party at the 21st slot on its list. She argues that challenges facing Jerusalem, including tensions with the haredi community, risk spreading across Israel, and believes only Naftali Bennett can deliver the necessary changes.

Esti Ayalon Kovo, a former diplomat and Jerusalem resident, has entered the 2026 Israeli Knesset race with the B'Yachad party, holding the 21st slot on its list. She argues that the challenges facing Jerusalem, including economic and social tensions with the haredi community, risk spreading across the entire country if not addressed. Kovo cites the need for effective governance and breaking up what she calls a "haredi state-within-a-state" regarding enlistment, education, and the workforce. She believes only party chairman Naftali Bennett can deliver the necessary changes. Her campaign focuses on accountability, liberal Zionist values, and preventing failures like October 7 and the flydubai hijacking. The article includes an interview where Kovo discusses her background, motivations, and advice for olim.