Meretz

Meretz, officially known as the Meretz-Yachad (Hebrew: מרצ-יחד), is a left-wing, social-democratic, and green political party in Israel. It was founded in 1992 as a merger of several left-wing parties, including Mapam, Ratz, and Shinui. Meretz advocates for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, advocating for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. The party also champions social justice, human rights, environmental protection, and secularism.

Throughout its history, Meretz has often been a partner in coalition governments led by the Labor Party, though it has also participated in governments led by Likud. The party has consistently advocated for policies aimed at reducing social and economic inequality within Israel, promoting civil liberties, and advancing peace initiatives. Meretz holds a firm stance against the expansion of settlements in the West Bank and supports the dismantling of existing ones.

The party's voter base typically consists of secular, urban, and younger Israelis, as well as those who identify with progressive values. Meretz has played a role in shaping Israeli political discourse, particularly on issues of peace, human rights, and environmentalism. Its electoral performance has varied over the years, but it has consistently maintained a presence in the Knesset, Israel's parliament, and has been influential in pushing certain policy agendas. Meretz is often seen as representing the dovish wing of Israeli politics.