New Party Leader Criticizes Netanyahu's Priorities

Netali Shacham Tov, who is number 3 in the new 'Am Israel' party, has rejected claims of coordination with the Likud party regarding a campaign to boost Ofer Winter. In an interview with Yossi Ben Atar for Srugim Studio, Shacham Tov addressed leaked communications attributed to Prime Minister Netanyahu's aide, Jonathan Urikh, stating that the exchanges showed no coordination and that public attacks from the Likud indicate attempts to harm her party. She asserted that there is an "open campaign" against her party, citing videos from Netanyahu himself. Shacham Tov expressed her belief that it is better to "eliminate enemies than brothers" and that they do not attack "good people who come to politics to help the people of Israel."

Shacham Tov also discussed potential future coalition partners, leaving the door open for a partnership with Arie Deri, chairman of the Shas party, provided he "repents and understands that it is impossible to continue as before." However, she stressed that "a government dependent on Goldknopf is not a good government for the people of Israel." She directly criticized Prime Minister Netanyahu's priorities, stating, "He prefers to protect Goldknopf over Ofer Winter, a fighter who led the force for many long years." Shacham Tov indicated that her party's entry into a government is conditional on decisions regarding the fronts, immigration from Gaza, and the implementation of a plan for conscripts, warning that she would not join if these conditions are not met.

In contrast to her openness to Deri, Shacham Tov firmly ruled out any cooperation with Yair Golan, chairman of the Democrats, stating, "Yair Golan is not my partner in any way. I will not cooperate with this man." Regarding religious and state issues, Shacham Tov commented on gender-segregated public services, saying she doesn't believe it's forbidden if based on audience and demand, as long as it's not imposed and doesn't discriminate. On the topic of offering tefillin to teenagers, she stated there is nothing wrong with it, adding that if someone in Israel fears tefillin, the problem lies with them, not the offerer. She emphasized that any activity within schools must adhere to regulations and obtain proper approvals.

Shacham Tov also shared her experiences entering politics, noting mixed reactions from her former media colleagues, with some being supportive and others disapproving. She felt there was a lack of acceptance for the right in Israel, even though she represents a different kind of right-wing politics. Despite some negative reactions, she confirmed that her close associates have not cut ties with her.