Trooper Criticizes Netanyahu, Winter Over Draft Evasion

In his first interview since joining the "Yisrael!" party, MK Chili Tropper addressed recent polls showing a decline in the anti-coalition bloc, urging against panic. He noted that while current polls may disadvantage smaller parties, their actual electoral success is uncertain. Tropper highlighted the challenge Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces with potentially three right-wing parties in the next election, a departure from the usual one.

Addressing concerns that he or his associates might defect like former MKs Idit Silman and Amichai Chikli, Tropper dismissed the idea, stating that "Yisrael!" party members have clear codes of partnership and commitment. He criticized those who sow suspicion, pointing out that individuals historically associated with breaking coalitions are now spreading distrust.

Tropper specifically targeted MK Ram Ben Barak, who reportedly attracted some of "Yisrael!" party's supporters. While acknowledging Ben Barak's right-wing stance and support for drafting the ultra-Orthodox, Tropper accused him of choosing to align with Netanyahu, whom Tropper blames for enabling draft evasion. He questioned Ben Barak's decision to join Netanyahu, given his past criticisms of the Prime Minister's handling of the war and his call for change after October 7th.

Tropper contrasted the current situation with a post-October 7th sentiment that divided society between those actively serving and those evading service. He asserted that Ben Barak's actions align him with those who facilitated draft evasion and are responsible for the current difficult situation.

In response, the "Am Israel" party criticized Tropper for joining a government with Mansour Abbas and signing a surplus agreement with Yair Golan, claiming that votes for Tropper and Benny Gantz would lead to Golan and a government with Abbas, which they believe would not defeat Hamas.