Veteran Yesh Atid Politician Meir Cohen Opts Out of Knesset Race

Meir Cohen, a founding member of the Yesh Atid party and a close associate of Yair Lapid, has announced he will not run for the next Knesset. Lapid, the opposition leader, stated he had asked Cohen to run in a high position again, but Cohen wished to make way for the party's next generation of lawmakers.

Cohen, a former minister and Knesset member, confirmed his decision not to compete in the upcoming elections on the "Achva" list. He will transition to the role of Chairman and President of the Yesh Atid conference, continuing his involvement with the party. Cohen, who co-founded Yesh Atid with Lapid, cited his 25 years in education and 23 years in politics as factors in his decision.

"I am happily and proudly making way for the next generation of the party and for the people who will lead it into the future," Cohen stated. He emphasized his continued commitment to the party's values and its leadership under Lapid, expressing belief that Yesh Atid is the best choice for governing Israel.

Lapid praised Cohen's decision, calling him a "rare person and rare politician." He described Cohen as his "older brother" and a central figure in Yesh Atid, assuring that his departure from the Knesset list does not signify an end to his involvement. Lapid reiterated that Cohen's choice was to allow opportunities for newer party members.