“We both chose to try to serve the public through the political arena as well,” they said. “In some cases together and in all other cases separately, but with a very similar ideological outlook.”

Israel Prize laureate Adi Altschuler also joins Yashar, tapped as candidate for education minister; Ben Gvir publishes Otzma Yehudit slate, prompting disgruntled MK to resign

Some within the party are pressing for staying the course, arguing against rushing to withdraw from the race or join an existing party.