Israeli Communications Minister Slams Political Rival, Criticizes Judiciary

Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi launched a sharp attack on Ofer Winter, a political rival, during the Likud party's campaign launch event on Thursday. Karhi stated that Winter represents "Kaplan's hope," suggesting Winter's new party, "Am Israel," is either a spoiler for right-wing votes or could potentially align with other blocs, not necessarily the Likud. Karhi specifically mentioned that if Winter's party surpasses the electoral threshold, he might align with Avigdor Lieberman, further dividing the right-wing bloc.

Karhi also heavily criticized the Israeli judiciary, particularly the Supreme Court, accusing it of attempting to interfere with the upcoming elections. He cited the court's recent decisions to overturn a directive against reporting from polling stations and to prevent the commemoration of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef as examples of judicial overreach. Karhi asserted that the court is acting on technicalities because it cannot win against the majority of the public who support the current government.

During the interview with 'Kikar HaShabbat,' Karhi emphasized the Likud party's role as the "backbone of the national camp" and stressed the importance of preventing a government led by figures like Yair Golan, Mansour Abbas, and Ahmed Tibi. He framed the election as a choice between a Jewish and democratic state and a state of all its citizens, where the Supreme Court would hold ultimate power. Karhi urged the public to vote despite perceived judicial obstacles, stating, "On your anger and your fury, the public will run to the ballot box."