Former Israeli ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan announced the formation of a new right-wing political party on Tuesday, positioning it as a challenger to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud ahead of the October 27 elections. The party, whose name has yet to be finalized, was launched in Tel Aviv alongside Knesset Member Yuli Edelstein, who recently parted ways with Likud.

Erdan, who will lead the new faction, emphasized the party’s commitment to traditional right-wing values and pledged to address Israel’s ongoing military manpower shortages by advocating for universal conscription. Central to the party’s platform is the introduction of a Basic Law mandating that all Israeli citizens, including the haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community, either serve in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) or undertake national service.

In remarks at the launch event, Erdan highlighted the need for what he described as an equitable system of service, stating, “In the State of Israel, every citizen has rights, but also responsibilities.” The proposal aims to broaden military and civil service obligations to help alleviate personnel shortages facing the IDF.

The party is expected to attract additional political figures in the coming weeks as it seeks to solidify its presence on the right of the political spectrum ahead of the upcoming elections. With Edelstein’s departure from Likud marking a notable shift, the new party hopes to carve out its own constituency while challenging the dominant position of Netanyahu’s ruling coalition.

Discussions have also surfaced about potential future alliances, with Erdan expressing openness to joining forces with other right-wing leaders, including former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot, to consolidate political influence.

The emergence of this new party reflects ongoing realignments within Israeli politics, underscored by debates over military service policies and the balance between civil rights and national duties. The political landscape ahead of the elections is expected to remain dynamic as parties jockey for support amidst security challenges and social divisions.