Ex-Minister Yuli Edelstein Denies Retirement Plans Amidst Party Struggles

Former Likud minister and current Chairman of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, Yuli Edelstein, recently joined Gilad Erdan's party. Speaking on Radio 103fm, Edelstein acknowledged the party's current struggles, admitting it would be a lie to say he is happy with their polling numbers, which currently fall below the electoral threshold. He expressed a desire for ten mandates but stated this is not the reality.

Edelstein explained that entering the political arena between two major blocs, who are actively trying to undermine them, was never going to be easy. He highlighted that party members chose this path to advance ideas, not solely for electoral success, even turning down offers for reserved spots on other lists. Despite the challenges, Edelstein firmly stated he is not considering retirement, emphasizing his belief in the importance of their promoted ideas and the necessity of their party, "Unity."

Regarding potential mergers, Edelstein expressed hope for a joint technical bloc with Benny Gantz's National Unity party. He indicated that political agreements often come together at the last minute and stressed the need to agree on core principles even for a technical alliance. He hopes these discussions will conclude soon, as time is running out before the elections.

Edelstein reiterated his party's willingness to unite with other parties positioned between the major blocs. However, he stressed the importance of ensuring that any allied party would not later align with either of the main political camps after the elections. He concluded by stating that any narrow government would be dependent on extremists, and their goal is to prevent such a scenario.