Jewish Power Accuses Likud of Stealing Campaign Achievements

Sources within the "Otzma Yehudit" (Jewish Power) party are criticizing the Likud party's new election campaign slogan, "It's Right-Wing or Palestine." They allege that the ruling Likud party is taking credit for achievements and policy positions that Otzma Yehudit, led by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, spearheaded.

"We worked so hard to ensure a Palestinian state would not be established here and to remove terror supporters from the Knesset," the sources stated, referencing Otzma Yehudit's efforts. They pointed to specific actions, such as their recent involvement in the case of Sami Abu Shehadeh, as examples of their work that they claim is now being featured in other parties' campaigns. The sources expressed confidence that voters are discerning and recognize who has genuinely advocated for a right-wing government.

The Likud campaign frames the upcoming election as a choice between a right-wing government and one that would advance the establishment of a Palestinian state. Otzma Yehudit aims to counter this narrative by highlighting its own past actions and Ben-Gvir's consistent stance against a Palestinian state and the current form of the Palestinian Authority.

Earlier, Otzma Yehudit issued its own response to the Likud campaign, declaring, "A strong Otzma Yehudit equals Ben-Gvir as Defense Minister equals dismantling the PA." This aligns with Ben-Gvir's demand to be appointed Defense Minister in the next government, which he has stated will be a condition for his party joining a future coalition.

Otzma Yehudit also seeks to differentiate itself from Likud by emphasizing its role in challenging the candidacies of Arab parties and politicians in the past, particularly within the Election Committee.