Tropper–Hendel Alliance Insists Hendel Lead National Security Ministry, Demands 'Broad Zionist Government'

August 5, 2026 — Former ministers Chili Tropper and Yoaz Hendel launched their joint list, The Zionist Home–The Reservists, announcing that Hendel would be their pick for National Security Minister if the alliance joins the next government. Speaking at a campaign event attended by bereaved families, reservists and supporters, the pair set out a series of conditions and a policy package they call the "Star of David Plan."

Conditions for Joining a Coalition

Tropper and Hendel said the party will only consider joining a government that meets several core demands: appointment of Yoaz Hendel as National Security Minister; formation of what they described as a "broad Zionist government"; passage of legislation obligating haredim (ultra‑Orthodox) to serve in the IDF; and implementation of universal conscription.

Leadership and Positioning

The two men will lead the new alliance jointly. They emphasized that the list is not formally aligned with either the opposition or Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's bloc and that it will prioritize principles and policy goals over political camp alignment.

Former ministers Chili Tropper and Yoaz Hendel unveil the platform of their newly launched The Zionist Home-The Reservists party on August 5, 2026. (credit: MARC ISRAEL SELLEM)

Why Hendel for National Security?

The party argued Hendel's security background and prior ministerial experience make him well suited for the national security brief. Hendel previously served as communications minister and led The Reservists party before merging with Tropper's political framework.

"The government failed in recruiting all Israelis," Hendel said, adding that reservists have paid a disproportionate price. "We are going to offer a few plans in different areas. One of them is about going back to Zionism and encouraging aliyah to Israel."

Tropper criticized the government's record on public safety and vowed a practical approach: "After years of making grand promises but with bloodshed in the streets and rising violence, it is time for someone who comes to work, not to pose for pictures. It is time to care about personal security, not TikTok likes. Yoaz is the right person for the job." He did not name current National Security Minister Itamar Ben‑Gvir directly.

The Star of David Plan: Key Policy Elements

• Education: Public funding would be restricted to schools that teach the national core curriculum.
• Conscription and Service: Universal conscription and a draft law for haredim; benefits for those who serve and sanctions for draft evaders.
• Economy: Measures to reduce the cost of living by encouraging competition, breaking up market concentration and dismantling monopolies, with targeted support for working parents and reservists.
• Settlements: Investment across the West Bank and expansion of legal settlement activity.
• Governance Reforms: Promotion of a "Zionist constitution" to strengthen checks and balances and advancement of legislation to limit the prime minister's term in office.
• Northern Border Rehabilitation: A pledge to approve, within 90 days of forming government, a plan to return residents evacuated from northern communities and to expand rehabilitation and mental health services.

Outlook

The new alliance blends security and national‑identity priorities with social and economic measures, aiming to position itself as a principled centrist‑Zionist force. Its willingness to join either side of the political divide appears contingent on a government that implements its core programmatic demands, especially on security and conscription.