Derekh Eretz (political faction)

Derekh Eretz (Hebrew: דרך ארץ, meaning "Way of the Land" or "Civility") was a political faction in Israel. It was founded on December 29, 2020, by MKs Yoaz Hendel and Zvi Hauser, who defected from the Blue and White party.

The faction's name, Derekh Eretz, reflects its purported focus on practical, pragmatic, and grounded policies, rather than strict adherence to rigid ideologies. It emphasizes a responsible and civil approach to governance. The term itself, "Derekh Eretz," has roots in Jewish tradition and philosophy, denoting proper conduct, respect, and societal responsibility.

Hendel and Hauser had previously aligned with Blue and White as part of the Telem faction led by Moshe Ya'alon. However, disagreements over the party's direction and priorities led to their departure and the formation of Derekh Eretz.

Initially, Derekh Eretz aimed to provide a moderate, centrist voice within the Israeli political landscape. However, the faction's brief existence saw it primarily act in support of the coalition government led by Benjamin Netanyahu. This alignment contributed to the party's lack of distinct ideological identity.

In the lead-up to the March 2021 Israeli legislative election, Derekh Eretz joined the New Hope party led by Gideon Sa'ar. This merger effectively dissolved Derekh Eretz as an independent political entity, integrating its members and political agenda into the New Hope framework. Following the election and Sa'ar's subsequent role in the Bennett-Lapid government, Hendel and Hauser held ministerial positions.