As Israel’s May 29 election approaches, Labor and Likud are each heading for the political center in search of the critical swing voter who holds the key to political victory. The Labor Party, led by Shimon Peres, is proclaiming its intention to build on the advantages won during its diplomacy with the Palestinians to secure Israel’s permanent presence in the occupied territories. The Likud distinguishes itself by emphasizing its ideological commitment to settlement. Led by Benjamin Netanyahu, it acknowledges acceptance of the political facts created by Labor while adhering to its existential commitment to settlement throughout Greater Israel.