There is much speculation surrounding the “big deal” of this election, the union between Likud and Yisrael Beitenu. According to Minister of Transportation (Likud) Yisrael Katz, what compelled the union were ongoing credible rumors that the political center and left-wing were working to merge into a large bloc which would be headed by President Shimon Peres. Katz made his comments during a party election function in Ohr Yehuda.

Makor Rishon reported the minister’s words, explaining the right-wing became aware of the ongoing effort, which would have delivered a major blow. This was the impetus for the parties to unite to create a significant right-wing election bloc. Katz explained that by uniting into a large party, they hope that following elections the president will have to place the mandate of forming a coalition in their court, for the two parties represent a large voter base and “This is what today’s reality demands”.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)