Tropper Reflects on Gantz's Exit, Criticizes Likud's Silence on Eisenkot Campaign
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Hili Tropper revealed details of his late-night exchange with Benny Gantz following Gantz's political exit, acknowledging "scars" in their friendship but emphasizing Gantz's contributions. Tropper also criticized the Likud party for its silence regarding a campaign against Gadi Eisenkot, which he described as using ethnic rhetoric. He believes Likud is losing support, with voters moving towards Eisenkot, and that the silence of Likud members of Moroccan descent is politically motivated.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Hili Tropper revealed late-night communication with Benny Gantz after his political departure, noting scars in their friendship.
- Tropper criticized the Likud party for its silence on a campaign targeting Gadi Eisenkot with ethnic rhetoric.
- Tropper believes the Likud party is losing significant support, with voters shifting towards Gadi Eisenkot.
- Tropper highlighted Benny Gantz's significant contributions during the early days of the war and his role as Defense Minister.
- Tropper questioned the silence of Likud Knesset members of Moroccan descent regarding attacks on Eisenkot.
Following Benny Gantz's departure from politics, Hili Tropper revealed details of their late-night exchange and the "scars" on their relationship, suggesting the political saga is not over. Tropper also criticized Likud members for their silence amid a campaign against Gadi Eisenkot.
Tropper described his recent observations from the field, noting increased voter willingness and a sense that the election is consolidating around major parties. He believes Israelis are increasingly understanding the election as a contest for prime minister and expressed cautious optimism about his party's strengthening trend, suggesting it's wise to await final results due to potential surprises.
Regarding Gantz's decision to leave politics, Tropper stated he was not surprised and felt Gantz acted responsibly. "I love the person," Tropper said, sharing that they exchanged messages and planned to meet for coffee. He acknowledged that the past year had created "scars" in their deep friendship but emphasized that Gantz's decades of contribution to Israel were paramount and that he felt gratitude.
Tropper highlighted Gantz's significant role during the early, difficult days of the war, including being present on October 7th and participating in critical decisions as a former Defense Minister. He suggested Gantz might not have said his last word politically but admitted he couldn't interpret his future moves.
Dismissing poll numbers that favor the Likud, Tropper stated that his field observations contradict them, indicating a significant erosion of Likud's support, with many voters shifting to Gadi Eisenkot. He condemned the alleged use of ethnic and racist rhetoric in campaigns, particularly mentioning comments about Eisenkot being manipulated by an "Ashkenazi elite," which he believes alienates many Israelis, including Likud voters.
Tropper specifically called out Likud Knesset members of Moroccan descent for their silence regarding the attacks on Eisenkot, questioning their usual outspokenness on issues of ethnic discrimination. He suggested their current quietude stems from political considerations and that this silence is noticed by Israelis, including Likud supporters, who are increasingly comfortable with Eisenkot.
