Goldknopf and Bennett emerge as potential deciders in Israel's tight election race

Yitzhak Goldknopf and Naftali Bennett are positioned to influence the outcome of Israel's upcoming election, according to political assessments released as voting begins. The evaluations suggest that Goldknopf's party, Agudat Yisrael, may support a government led by the opposition in exchange for budgetary agreements. This potential alliance could determine whether the change bloc secures a governing majority.

Agudat Yisrael holds three seats in the Knesset. Internal friction within United Torah Judaism has complicated the faction's standing. Disagreements between Agudat Yisrael and Degel Hatorah center on the Haredi military draft and relations with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. A letter from Rabbi Dov Lando expressed doubt about maintaining the commitment to the Likud-led bloc, adding uncertainty to the coalition's stability.

Maariv reported in August that Agudat Yisrael was exploring cooperation with Gadi Eisenkot. This interest in partnering with the change bloc is not new. However, Goldknopf faces resistance from his voter base, which largely identifies with the Right. Political analysts warn that supporting an opposition government could drive some of his supporters toward Likud or Otzma Yehudit.

Naftali Bennett represents a separate variable in the coalition math. If neither the Likud-led bloc nor the change bloc reaches the 61 seats required for a majority, Bennett could decide the shape of the next government. One scenario involves Bennett joining a Netanyahu-led cabinet. This move is considered remote but plausible given Bennett's background on the Right, though it would require shifting his party's current base.

Avigdor Liberman was also cited as a potential actor, noting his previous role as defense minister in a Netanyahu government. Assessments indicate Liberman is currently unlikely to join the prime minister's side due to personal and political disagreements. The central question for coalition negotiators will be which leader is willing to move their political base to secure a majority.

These scenarios remain under discussion with less than a day left before voting starts. Political figures are reviewing outcomes that include a government relying on Arab party support or a return to the polls. For now, the potential roles of Goldknopf and Bennett are political assessments rather than finalized agreements.