Ex-Labor MK Eli Goldschmidt Joins Netanyahu's Likud Party

Former Member of Knesset Eli Goldschmidt, who previously served with the Labor Party, is joining the Likud party's list for the upcoming 26th Knesset elections. Prime Minister and Likud Chairman Benjamin Netanyahu revealed Goldschmidt's inclusion as one of his reserved spots on the party's slate.

Goldschmidt, who resided in the Gaza border region for years, stated that the events of October 7th led to a "sobering up" and a shift in his political and security views. He now aligns with Netanyahu's positions and the national camp. His move is presented by Likud as a significant ideological transition from the left to the national camp, bolstered by his experiences in the Gaza border area.

His addition to the Likud list comes as Netanyahu finalizes the party's slate ahead of the deadline for submission. Goldschmidt's prior Knesset experience, serving as chairman of the Labor faction, makes his move particularly notable. Likud highlighted his experience and understanding of Israeli reality as valuable assets.

The inclusion of Goldschmidt is part of Netanyahu's strategy to fill eight reserved spots on the Likud list, some of which are high on the slate. This process has caused internal friction within the party, as reserved placements push out candidates selected through primaries. The party's internal court had warned against last-minute revelations of reserved names, deeming it potentially improper, as the deadline for submitting the full list loomed.