Former Israeli prime ministers have announced plans to unite their opposition parties in preparation for the country's next election, creating a consolidated challenge to current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership.

The merger represents the most significant opposition alliance formed against Netanyahu, bringing together key rival political figures who previously served as the country's top leaders. The unified opposition aims to present a stronger alternative to Netanyahu's Likud party and its coalition partners.

The announcement comes as Netanyahu faces ongoing legal proceedings, with Israel's president indicating he wants to see a resolution in the prime minister's court case before making any decisions about potential pardons. The president emphasized the importance of allowing legal processes to conclude before considering clemency measures.

Meanwhile, in Palestinian territories, recent local elections saw loyalists of the Palestinian leadership securing victories in multiple municipalities, including some contested seats in Gaza. The electoral outcomes reflect ongoing political dynamics within Palestinian governance structures.

The opposition party merger in Israel signals intensifying political competition ahead of future elections, as former prime ministers seek to leverage their combined political influence and voter bases to challenge Netanyahu's continued hold on power.