Only 12 seats? It's a mistake to write off Yair Lapid too early | Terry Newman

Terry Newman argues that despite low poll numbers, it is too early to politically eulogize Yair Lapid. Lapid, who built the most heterogeneous government in Israel's history and ceded its leadership to Bennett, is the figure Israel needs now, according to the author.

Terry Newman argues that despite low poll numbers (12 seats), it is too early to politically eulogize Yair Lapid. Lapid, he says, built the most heterogeneous government in Israel's history in 2021 and ceded its leadership to Naftali Bennett. The author sees the Lapid-Bennett alliance as an ideological template of mamlachtiut Judaism that will shape Israeli politics throughout the 21st century. Newman identifies a shift in the political structure: instead of three blocs (coalition, opposition, Arabs), four blocs have emerged, including Haredim who do not serve in the military. The central question, in his view, is not right versus left but who is willing for full partnership in the burden. The article concludes that Lapid is the man the current moment needs, not just for the next elections but for the coming decades.