Dissident Right-Wing Faction Plots New 'Likud B' Party to Challenge Netanyahu's Political Dominance

Senior Israeli politicians, including Yuli Edelstein and Sharren Haskel, are reportedly forming 'Likud B' to provide a statesmanlike alternative to the Likud.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 25, 2026, 4:55 PM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Times of Israel

Emergence of a Moderate Right-Wing Alternative

A high-profile group of senior right-wing figures has initiated the organization of a new political movement designed to offer a "statesmanlike" alternative to the current Likud leadership. According to a report from Channel 12, the initiative is being colloquially referred to as "Likud B" and aims to establish a platform free from the influence of extremist factions that currently participate in the ruling coalition. This development signals a significant fracturing within the traditional right-wing base as influential lawmakers seek to recapture the center-right electorate.

Prominent Figures Break Ranks with Coalition

The movement reportedly includes several veteran politicians who have experienced direct friction with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Among those cited is Likud MK Yuli Edelstein, the former head of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee. Edelstein’s involvement follows his removal from his committee post last year after he blocked coalition-sponsored legislation regarding draft exemptions for ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students. Joining him is Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel, who has publicly described herself as "politically homeless" following the merger of Gideon Sa’ar’s New Hope party with Likud.

Return of Veteran Lawmakers to the Fray

Beyond current members of the Knesset, the organizational efforts involve established figures such as former Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon and former UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan. Kahlon, who previously successfully formed the breakaway Kulanu party before returning to the Netanyahu government, brings experience in establishing independent political structures. Erdan is reportedly utilizing this platform as he weighs a broader future bid for Likud leadership, suggesting that the "Likud B" project may serve as a strategic launchpad for several high-level political ambitions.