HaLikud

HaLikud, commonly referred to simply as Likud, is a major political party in Israel. The party was founded in 1973 as a merger of Herut and the Liberal Party, and quickly emerged as a leading force on the Israeli right. The Hebrew name הליכוד is used in Israeli politics, with HaLikud often appearing in English-language commentary as the definite form “the Likud.”

Ideology and positions: Likud is generally described as center-right to right-wing. It emphasizes national security, a strong Israeli state, and free-market economic policies. The party has historically supported Jewish settlement in the West Bank and has been skeptical of a Palestinian state with full sovereignty near Israel, though positions have varied with leadership and circumstances. Likud advocates a robust security stance, the primacy of Israeli law and governance, and close relations with Western allies.

History and leadership: The party formed from the merger of Herut and the Liberal Party, with Menachem Begin a key early figure who became prime minister in 1977. Later leaders included Yitzhak Shamir and, beginning in 1993, Benjamin Netanyahu, who has served multiple terms as prime minister. In the Knesset, Likud has frequently been the largest faction and has headed governing coalitions or served in opposition, depending on election outcomes and alliance dynamics.

Organization and electoral profile: Likud maintains a nationwide network of local branches and a central leadership that directs policy and candidate selection. Its support base spans many urban areas, settlers in the West Bank, and voters favoring a security-focused and market-oriented policy framework. As a persistent and influential force in Israeli politics, Likud has played a central role in forming governments and shaping national policy across decades.