Gesher 1996 political party

Gesher, an Israeli political party founded in 1996 by David Levy after his departure from Likud, focused on addressing social and economic issues particularly affecting Sephardic Jews. The party exhibited strategic flexibility through its alliances, initially with Likud and later with Labor under Ehud Barak's leadership as part of the One Israel coalition in 1999. Despite Levy's role as Foreign Minister in this coalition, his influence was limited due to Barak maintaining control over the ministry.

Gesher's tenure was marked by significant shifts, including its withdrawal from the coalition in 2000 over disagreements on peace negotiations and Lebanon withdrawal. Subsequent internal conflicts arose when Levy rejoined Likud in 2003, leading to legal disputes over the party's dissolution. The Supreme Court of Israel ruled in 2007 to dismantle Gesher, ending its political presence.

Throughout its history, Gesher's trajectory was shaped by Levy's leadership and its dynamic alliances, ultimately concluding with internal strife and legal resolution ending the party's existence.