Energy Minister Eli Cohen Seeks Finance Portfolio After Likud Primary Win

Following his decisive victory in the Likud primaries, where he secured first place with approximately 46,000 votes, Energy Minister Eli Cohen has set his sights on a key government position: the Ministry of Finance. Cohen, who has served in the security cabinet, believes his background in business and economics makes him uniquely suited for the role.

Cohen articulated his vision for the Finance Ministry, stating that a finance minister should be more than just a budget manager. He emphasized the need to foster economic growth and productivity, aiming to expand the Israeli economy. He attributes his primary success to a combination of his work in various ministerial roles and diligent grassroots campaigning, highlighting his commitment to his work by arriving early and leaving late at his office.

Looking ahead to the formation of the next coalition, Cohen expressed an open approach, indicating that Likud would welcome any party that aligns with its core principles. He specifically mentioned the possibility of a partnership with the "Yisrael Beiteinu" party, led by Gadi Eisenkot, stating that no party is being ruled out. However, he drew a clear line against relying on Arab parties, criticizing left-wing Knesset members for perceived associations with the Islamic Movement and drawing parallels to Arab Knesset members in religious parties.

Despite complex poll results reported by some media outlets, Cohen remains confident in a right-wing victory and their return to power. He asserted that the public is leaning rightward and pointed to recent security successes, including the elimination of enemy leaders and the establishment of security zones, as evidence of the right's effectiveness. Cohen predicted that the right would outperform poll predictions in the upcoming elections, as it has in the past.