Mapai and Labour parties unite for elections

In 1965, a significant political shift occurred in Israel as the Mapai and Labour parties united to form a single political entity for the upcoming elections. This strategic alliance was primarily aimed at consolidating their political power and ensuring the continuation of Levi Eshkol as Prime Minister. The united party's efforts proved successful, as they secured 45 seats in the Knesset, thereby solidifying Eshkol's leadership position. In contrast, David Ben-Gurion, who had recently left Mapai to establish the Rafi party, garnered only 10 seats. Meanwhile, the Gahal party, a coalition formed by Menachem Begin's Herut and the Liberal party, emerged as the second-largest political force with 26 seats. This election not only reshaped the Knesset's composition but also set the stage for future political developments in Israel, highlighting the dynamic nature of its political landscape during this period.