Author Questions Political Shifts, Warns Against 'Traitor' Rhetoric

Author Yossi Ahimeir expresses deep bewilderment over the recent political decisions of former Likud figures Tsachi Hanegbi and Limor Livnat, questioning their ideological consistency and motives. Ahimeir addresses Hanegbi directly, questioning his decision to join Avigdor Lieberman, a sharp critic of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and whether he aligns with Lieberman's harsh rhetoric. As a former head of the National Security Council and a confidant of Netanyahu, Hanegbi's move raises questions about his commitment to national principles, particularly concerning Judea and Samaria and the opposition to a Palestinian state.

Ahimeir also reflects on Livnat's recent call for Likud members to vote for Naftali Bennett, Gadi Eisenkot, or Avigdor Lieberman, echoing his concerns about the prioritization of replacing the government over core ideological differences. He laments that figures who grew up in Likud and espoused its principles are now recommending alternatives without centering these key issues, fearing for the future of the land itself.

The author then turns to the political departure of Benny Gantz, noting how some politicians who rose under his leadership, such as Gadi Eisenkot, Hili Tropper, Orit Farkash-Hacohen, and Eitan Ginzburg, have chosen separate paths, while Michael Biton and Pnina Tamano-Shata remained loyal. Ahimeir expresses personal respect for Gantz, suggesting he might be suited for a future role as president.

Ahimeir broadens his critique to the general state of political discourse, citing instances where individuals label Netanyahu a "traitor." He draws a parallel to the harsh rhetoric used against the late Yitzhak Rabin, warning against normalizing such language that questions a person's loyalty to the state. He stresses that while strong opposition and democratic action are valid, the term "traitor" crosses a line from political disagreement to personal defamation.

Finally, Ahimeir reflects on the legacy of Ze'ev Jabotinsky on his 146th birthday. He notes Jabotinsky's own request to avoid public celebrations of his birthday, contrasting it with the current need to remember his contributions. Ahimeir expresses pride in leading the public council for Jabotinsky's commemoration.