Ethiopian-born diplomat Esti Ayalon Kovo runs for Knesset on B'Yachad list

Esti Ayalon Kovo occupies the 21st slot on the B'Yachad party list for the 2026 Knesset elections. The list is led by Naftali Bennett. Ayalon Kovo argues that the economic and social fractures visible in Jerusalem are now appearing across the country. She describes these issues as a blueprint for national decline if left unaddressed.

Born in Ethiopia, Ayalon Kovo immigrated to Israel before taking a career in diplomacy. She previously served as the head of Israel's Economic Mission in China. Her move to Jerusalem was personal rather than professional. She settled in the Beit Hakerem neighborhood after her children were accepted to a local school. She describes the area as special and states that she cannot imagine living elsewhere.

Ayalon Kovo identifies a lack of accountable leadership as the primary issue in the upcoming campaign. She cites specific failures, including the events of October 7 and the Flydubai hijacking, as evidence of this deficit. Her second major concern is preserving Israel as a liberal, Zionist, Jewish, and democratic state. She argues that a haredi state-within-a-state has formed around military service, education, and labor participation. She believes this enclave must be dismantled to prevent the economic and educational trends seen in the capital from spreading nationwide.

Her motivation for entering the race is rooted in her family. "More than anything, I'm in this for my children," she said. She argues that the country requires immediate repair, effective governance, and thorough plans for basic challenges. She maintains that Bennett is the only figure capable of delivering these results. Her background in diplomacy stems from an early desire to represent Israel globally, a path she found complex and multifaceted.

Ayalon Kovo also addresses new immigrants, or olim, who wish to participate in public life. She urges them to take an active role rather than observing from the sidelines. "You didn't come here to sit back and watch Israel's story unfold," she said. She added that the country belongs to them and that participating in elections is a practical starting point for involvement.

The B'Yachad list welcomes candidates who seek change and repair following what Ayalon Kovo describes as difficult recent years. The interview took place in Jerusalem prior to the start of the election cycle. Ayalon Kovo emphasizes that the party is open to those who want to address the current political and social climate.