Yuli Edelstein Leaves Likud After Years of Clashes with Netanyahu, Plans New Political Path

Knesset member Yuli Edelstein announced on Friday that he will not run in the upcoming Likud primaries and intends to embark on a new political path. This decision ends a decade marked by tensions and conflicts between Edelstein and Likud chairman Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as the party leadership. In an interview with Channel 12 News, Edelstein confirmed, "I do not intend to run in the Likud primaries. I will start a new political path," putting an end to speculation about his future within the ruling party.

Edelstein has been known as one of the most independent and critical voices within Likud for years. Their public clashes date back to 2018, notably over Netanyahu's speech at the Independence Day torch lighting ceremony. In March 2020, amid a political crisis, Edelstein refused to stand with Netanyahu at the start of his trial and subsequently resigned as Knesset Speaker. The conflict intensified in October 2021 when Edelstein declared his intention to challenge Netanyahu for the Likud leadership, a move that highlighted the deep rift despite not developing into a full leadership contest.

In recent years, Edelstein played a central role in disputes over the draft law and rabbinical legislation. As chairman of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, he both delayed and advanced legislative initiatives important to the coalition and sometimes voted against the party line. These actions led to repeated confrontations with coalition leaders and senior Likud officials. Despite threats of expulsion and political pressure, Edelstein maintained his independent stance. In 2025, he was removed from his committee chairmanship and has now chosen to leave the party where he was active for decades.

Political circles are already speculating about Edelstein's next move. Various assessments suggest a possible new political alliance including former minister and ambassador Gilad Erdan and former Yamina leader Ayelet Shaked. However, no final decisions have been made, and discussions remain in early stages.