‘Israel must change direction’: Netanyahu rivals join forces for next election

Rightwing Naftali Bennett and centrist Yair Lapid announce new party before Knesset vote expected later this year

Two of Benjamin Netanyahu's most formidable political rivals say they are joining forces in an attempt to oust the Israeli prime minister's coalition government in the election expected later this year.

The former prime ministers - rightwing Naftali Bennett and centrist Yair Lapid - issued statements announcing the merger of their parties, Bennett 2026 and Yesh Atid (There is a Future).