Israeli Opposition Fears Likud Poaching Candidates Ahead of Elections
Translated & summarized from Vesty by baba
An Israeli opposition source fears that Likud, led by Benjamin Netanyahu, is actively trying to recruit defectors from Gadi Eisenkot's "Block of Change" party ahead of the October 27 elections. Likud has reportedly formed a special unit to identify and pressure candidates, particularly those with right-wing or religious backgrounds, who might be susceptible to switching sides. This effort has heightened tensions within the opposition, despite an earlier agreement to cease internal attacks.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Likud has formed a special unit to recruit defectors from Gadi Eisenkot's "Block of Change" party.
- An opposition source fears candidates like Idit Silman and Amichai Chikli could be on the "Block of Change" lists.
- Likud is reportedly targeting religious and right-wing candidates within Eisenkot's party.
- The "soul-catcher" team is scrutinizing candidates' backgrounds for potential pressure points.
- The elections are scheduled to take place on October 27.
- Moshe Radman expressed concerns about specific candidates holding key positions.
A senior opposition source expressed concern on Sunday, October 11, that defectors like Idit Silman and Amichai Chikli could end up on the candidate lists of the "Block of Change." This statement follows reports that the Likud party has formed a special unit, led by Gadi Eisenkot, to identify and recruit potential defectors to Benjamin Netanyahu's camp. The opposition source warned that not all candidates on the lists can be fully trusted, suggesting Netanyahu might succeed in luring some away.
The Likud's "soul-catcher" team, reportedly composed of Likud Knesset members and strategic consultants, aims to employ tactics previously used to persuade Amichai Chikli and Idit Silman, who was formerly the coalition chairwoman, to leave Naftali Bennett's party. The intensified efforts and new methods are reportedly aimed at potentially fracturing Eisenkot's party, which polls indicate is Netanyahu's main rival.
Moshe Radman, a candidate for the Knesset from the Democrats party, stated at a closed meeting on October 10 that the "Block of Change" aims to secure as many mandates as possible to advance its principles. He voiced his opposition to figures like Matan Kahana and Hili Tropper, both from Bennett's former party and listed on the "Block of Change" list, potentially holding key positions.
Despite an agreement among opposition leaders in late September to cease mutual attacks, tensions over candidate lists are escalating as the October 27 elections approach. The opposition source acknowledged that several candidates on the "Block of Change" list, particularly those perceived as religious and right-wing, are causing significant concern due to fears they might succumb to pressure from Likud. Specific individuals like Roi Folkman, who has supported legislation to bypass Supreme Court rulings and participated in drafting the nation-state law, and Matan Kahana, who reportedly maintains ties with the Kohelet Forum, are mentioned as targets.
The Likud team is reportedly scrutinizing the biographies of Eisenkot's candidates, focusing on newcomers with right-wing backgrounds. They are gathering information on past statements, associates, and religious or other authorities influencing these candidates. This intelligence is intended to be used for pressure tactics and offers of posts and privileges immediately after the elections to encourage defections.
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