Bardugo Denies Being Silenced After Knesset List Placement

Yaakov Bardugo, recently placed 11th on the Likud party's Knesset list, has refuted claims that he is being deliberately kept out of the public eye. The assertion, reported by Channel 12's Daphna Liel, suggested Bardugo's media appearances have significantly decreased since securing his spot on the list, a stark contrast to his near-daily presence on Channel 14 and Galei Israel prior to his placement. These earlier appearances often featured sharp political and security commentary.

Senior Likud figures reportedly believe Bardugo's reduced visibility is intentional, with the party allegedly preferring to downplay his presence to avoid alienating moderate and undecided voters with his strong statements. However, Bardugo dismissed these suggestions during a visit to the new settlement of Tzukey Eretz in the Benjamin region.

When questioned by a Channel 7 reporter about the reports, Bardugo responded, "The people of Israel live, here I am, how are they hiding me?" He also commented on the establishment of the new settlement and government policy regarding settlement expansion. Bardugo praised Prime Minister Netanyahu and Minister Smotrich for their efforts in construction, stating, "I think Benjamin Netanyahu is continuing the path of settling Judea and Samaria in a way that is worthy of the citizens of the State of Israel after October 7th to appreciate and understand that this settlement is the great shield for the entire country."