Likud's Eli Cohen Tops Primaries, Vows to Defeat Populism and Support Netanyahu
Eli Cohen, Israel's Energy Minister, secured a decisive first place in the Likud party primaries, outperforming expectations and previous rankings. Known for a low-profile campaign focused on achievements rather than populist rhetoric, Cohen emphasized his record of breaking the Israel Electric Corporation's monopoly, securing a gas deal with Egypt, and obtaining U.S. visa waivers for Israelis. He credited his success to hard work and tangible results, stating, "I wake up every day at 7 a.m. and work all day for the country."
Cohen expressed strong support for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him the right leader for Israel's next four years and praising his handling of recent conflicts and regional threats. He dismissed speculation about future Likud leadership contests, focusing instead on securing a Likud victory in the upcoming elections. Cohen also defended Netanyahu's demand for nine reserved slots on the party list, explaining it as a response to other parties where leaders control the entire list.
Looking ahead, Cohen aims to become Israel's next Finance Minister, highlighting his business background and accounting education as qualifications. He advocates for a free-market economy with social sensitivity and insists the Finance Ministry remain under Likud control. On the contentious issue of ultra-Orthodox military conscription, Cohen supports completing the draft law to increase equality in national service, emphasizing its importance for security, economy, and national unity.
Regarding Israel's conflict with Iran, Cohen hailed the military efforts as a significant deterrent that delayed Iran's nuclear program by several years. He warned that Israel would strike again if Iran resumes its nuclear or ballistic missile activities, regardless of any U.S. agreements. Cohen also addressed internal political tensions, calling for judicial reforms to restore balance among government branches and criticizing politicized court interventions.
Finally, Cohen acknowledged the need for a national inquiry into the failures of the October 7 attacks but remained confident that the right-wing bloc would outperform polls in the upcoming elections. He defended the issuance of diplomatic passports to Yair Netanyahu and expressed personal pride in his son's recent reserve service in Lebanon, underscoring the weight of security decisions on families.
