Minister Eli Cohen Claims Polls Are Biased Against Right Wing After Likud Primaries

Minister Eli Cohen secured a commanding first place in the Likud primaries, positioning himself as a key figure within the party. In his first interview with Walla News since the victory, Cohen attributed his success to Likud members favoring tangible achievements over political noise. He highlighted his accomplishments as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Energy, including securing a US visa waiver, finalizing a gas deal with Egypt, maintaining energy stability during wartime, and breaking the Israel Electric Corporation's monopoly.

Despite his political rise, Cohen avoided speculation about the post-Netanyahu era, emphasizing that the Likud remains united behind Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of the elections. Looking ahead, Cohen expressed his ambition to become Finance Minister, stating the role should remain with Likud and focus on economic growth, cost of living, employment, and reducing social gaps rather than just budget allocation.

On the contentious issue of military conscription, Cohen took a firmer stance than some in Likud, asserting that ultra-Orthodox Jews must also serve, as it is a security, economic, and social necessity. Regarding Iran, Cohen claimed Israel has significantly delayed Iran’s nuclear program and warned that Israel will act decisively if Iran attempts to revive its nuclear or ballistic missile initiatives.

Cohen also criticized polling agencies, alleging a consistent underestimation and bias against the right wing. He cited previous elections where the right-wing camp performed better than polls predicted and expressed confidence that national camp voters will ultimately turn out. Addressing the October 7 massacre, Cohen called for a national inquiry into systemic failures over the years but stressed that Israel has since become the strongest and most deterrent power in the Middle East.