Yisrael Beytenu announced on Thursday that Miki Fishman, until recently head of Yesh Atid’s Russian-language campaign staff, has joined the party. At the same time, Fishman publicly endorsed party leader MK Avigdor Liberman as the most suitable candidate for prime minister.
Fishman is a well-known behind-the-scenes political operative. He previously served as chief of staff to former tourism minister Yoel Razvozov, worked as a parliamentary adviser in the Knesset, and had been placed on Yesh Atid’s list in the local elections in Netanya.
In a statement marking his departure, Fishman thanked his former colleagues, saying he had been privileged to serve the state as part of the “government of change” and wished them well going forward. He said: “I got to know in Yesh Atid friends, good and devoted people, and together with them I had the privilege of serving the state as part of the government of change, and I wish them much success in the future.”
Explaining his move, Fishman said that given Israel’s complex current situation, Liberman is the right person to lead the country. He described Liberman as “a determined and strong leader with a great deal of experience” who would stand firm against Israel’s security, economic and social challenges. He added that he was proud to join Yisrael Beytenu and take part in what he called an important effort to bring real change to Israel. Political observers said the move gives Yisrael Beytenu a boost in the Russian-speaking sector and fits a broader effort to strengthen its ranks ahead of future elections.
