Moshe Feiglin Emerges as Key Right-Wing Figure Amidst Political Flux

Moshe Feiglin, a prominent and often controversial figure on the Israeli right, has unexpectedly secured a significant political position as the second candidate on a joint list with Bezalel Smotrich's Religious Zionism party. This move positions Feiglin for a potential ministerial role, possibly in the diplomatic-security cabinet, should the right-wing bloc form the next government. Feiglin, 64, has a long and turbulent political history, marked by activism against the Oslo Accords, multiple attempts to lead the Likud party, and a history of legal troubles, including a conviction for incitement. He has also been a vocal proponent of controversial ideologies, including the transfer of Arabs from Israel and the rebuilding of the Third Temple in Jerusalem.

Feiglin, currently the chairman of the Zehut party, has previously been expelled from the Likud by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. His current political resurgence is attributed to a strategic alliance with Smotrich, who reportedly accepted Feiglin onto his list under pressure from falling poll numbers. Feiglin's supporters project seven to eight Knesset seats for the joint list, potentially augmented by a Norwegian law mechanism.

Despite presenting a more libertarian image in recent years, advocating for individual freedoms and drug legalization, Feiglin maintains a fundamentalist and messianic ideology. His political platform includes immediate Israeli sovereignty over Judea, Samaria, and Gaza, and he has recently intensified his rhetoric regarding the elimination of Gaza's residents. Feiglin also advocates for the annexation of eastern Jordan and has expressed skepticism towards American aid, viewing it as a tool of dependency. He has also promoted conspiracy theories, including claims that the Shin Bet was involved in the assassination of Yitzhak Rabin and had foreknowledge of the October 7th Hamas attack.

Netanyahu, who previously sought to distance himself from Feiglin, has now publicly praised the alliance, signaling a potential shift in his stance. The article notes that Feiglin's uncompromising views and past actions have historically deterred many, including Netanyahu, but the current political landscape has created an opening for his return to prominence.