B'Yachad Candidate Claims Jerusalem's Economic Split Is Spreading Nationwide

Esti Ayalon Kovo argues that the economic and social fractures currently visible in Jerusalem are now defining the national crisis. Running in the 21st slot on the B'Yachad list ahead of the 2026 Knesset elections, she contends that the specific conflicts between the haredi community and other residents in the capital are becoming a blueprint for the rest of the country.

Ayalon Kovo immigrated to Israel from Ethiopia and previously served as head of Israel's Economic Mission in China. She moved to Jerusalem with her family after her children were accepted to a local school, settling in the Beit Hakerem neighborhood. She describes the city as a place where she could not imagine being anywhere else, noting that the environment is never boring. Her interest in diplomacy began in childhood, driven by a desire to represent the state abroad.

The candidate states that her primary motivation for entering the race is the future of her children. She asserts that Israel requires immediate repair, effective governance, and thorough plans for basic challenges. Ayalon Kovo believes Naftali Bennett is the only figure capable of delivering these changes. She identifies two defining issues for the campaign: a lack of responsible leadership and the need to preserve Israel as a liberal, Zionist, Jewish, and democratic state.

She cites specific failures of current leadership, including the events of October 7 and the flydubai hijacking. On the second point, she argues that a haredi state-within-a-state has emerged regarding military enlistment, education, and the workforce. Ayalon Kovo says this structure must be broken up to prevent the troubling trends in Jerusalem from spreading throughout the country.

In an interview conducted before the elections, she addressed immigrants hoping to influence public life. "You didn't come here to sit back and watch Israel's story unfold," she said. She urged them to take an active part in shaping the country, describing involvement in elections as a starting point. "This is your country. Your home," she added.

Ayalon Kovo said B'Yachad would welcome anyone seeking change after difficult years. She positioned her campaign as a direct response to the local struggles in Jerusalem that she believes are now a national model.

The 2026 Knesset elections are scheduled to take place following this campaign period, with B'Yachad led by Bennett.