Reservists Party Hopes for Double Envelopes as Winter Vows to Continue

Yoaz Hendel, the chairman of the Reservists-Economic Party, indicated on Wednesday that his party remains in a precarious position ahead of the final tally. Speaking to N12, Hendel stated that he is currently waiting for the counting of double envelopes, which are ballots cast by soldiers in the field. He expressed his continued hope that these votes will provide the necessary support to help his party succeed in crossing the electoral threshold.

Hendel maintained his call for the formation of a Zionist government, describing it as a critical necessity for the nation's stability. He warned that if such a government is not formed, Israel will fall apart. This declaration came as early projections suggested the party might not meet the minimum vote share required to enter the Knesset.

In response to media reports that his party was likely to miss the mark, Hendel accepted responsibility for the outcome but pointed to the narrative surrounding the campaign. He noted that the media had consistently emphasized figures indicating the party would not cross the threshold, a message that was repeatedly drummed into the public consciousness. He argued that this media focus played a significant role in shaping voter expectations.

As of Wednesday, with 85.6 percent of the general vote counted, the Reservists-Economic Party had secured approximately 2.6 percent of the total. This figure leaves the party roughly 100,000 votes short of the 3.25 percent threshold needed for representation. Hendel is now pinning his hopes on the uncounted double-envelope ballots, which have historically shown higher levels of support for his party in previous elections.

Meanwhile, Ofer Winter, the leader of the People of Israel party, pledged to continue his political fight despite his party’s projected failure to cross the electoral threshold. Winter acknowledged on Wednesday that his movement had not achieved its immediate goal of securing seats in the Knesset, but he insisted that the campaign was merely the beginning of a longer effort to bring new leadership to the country.

In a statement posted on his Instagram account following Tuesday's election, Winter reflected on the political landscape since October 7. He wrote that a realization had taken shape within him regarding the desperate need for different leadership in Israel. He described the desired leadership as united, aspiring to truth and justice, and capable of taking responsibility.

Winter admitted that he had not yet succeeded in his immediate political objectives but emphasized his commitment to the journey ahead. He stated, 'Leadership that knows how to make decisions… We are here. For a long and shared journey.' His comments signal that his political movement will remain active in the public sphere regardless of its current standing in the legislature.

The waiting period for the double envelopes is a tense time for parties near the threshold. These ballots are counted separately and can significantly alter the final results, particularly for parties that appeal to military voters. Hendel’s strategy relies entirely on this final segment of the electorate to bridge the gap between his current tally and the required percentage.

The outcome of these uncounted votes will determine whether the Reservists-Economic Party joins the new Knesset or remains in opposition. Hendel’s confidence in the process suggests he believes the support from soldiers will be sufficient to overturn the early projections. Until the final numbers are announced, the political landscape remains in flux.

Both Hendel and Winter represent parties that faced significant challenges in the recent election cycle. While Hendel focuses on the specific mechanics of the vote count, Winter is positioning his party for a future role in Israeli politics. Their differing responses to the initial results highlight the varied strategies employed by minor parties in a fragmented political system.