Former Finance Minister Kahlon Rejects Netanyahu's Offer, Eyes Future Roles

Former Israeli Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon has definitively rejected an offer from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to join the Likud party and receive a protected spot on its election list. Netanyahu viewed Kahlon as a significant electoral asset, particularly in addressing the rising cost of living, an area where Kahlon had achieved notable successes as finance minister. The Prime Minister had promised Kahlon a senior ministerial position should the Likud win the upcoming elections.

However, Kahlon concluded that Netanyahu's political brand has weakened and that rejoining Likud would be detrimental to his own political future. He also considered and rejected joining Gadi Eisenkot's "Yisrael Beitenu" party, though he did facilitate a connection between Eisenkot and former MK Roi Folkman. Kahlon will continue his business activities, including real estate investments, from his Ramat Gan office.

Looking ahead, Kahlon is seriously considering two potential political paths. The first is a run for mayor of Haifa in the municipal elections scheduled for October 2028, a race he is expected to win given his residency and popularity. The second, equally significant option, is a return to Likud to contend for party leadership if Netanyahu loses the upcoming election and retires from politics.

Legally, Kahlon is eligible to return to politics. He was previously fined and given a suspended sentence in the Yont Credit affair, but his settlement agreement does not preclude him from re-entering public service. Kahlon plans to build a political base with individuals he knows well. A response from Kahlon's office was not immediately available.