Yuli Edelstein Quits Likud Primaries, Netanyahu Deeply Concerned by Party Exodus

Yuli Edelstein announced last week that he will not run in the Likud primaries and intends to establish a new political party. This move has caused significant concern for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is reportedly troubled by the departure of figures perceived as more moderate and central within the party.

Legal correspondent Michael Shemesh commented on 103fm radio that Netanyahu is particularly worried about losing such key personalities, as they represent a less extreme faction of Likud. In an interview with Channel 12 News, Edelstein explained his decision, stating that although he has been a loyal Likud member for decades and has succeeded in every primary he participated in, he no longer feels he can continue under the current party direction. He criticized the party's stance on issues such as voting on sovereignty and controversial legislation, expressing uncertainty about the party's future actions.

In response to the controversy, Avishai Ben Haim dismissed the concerns, stating, "God forbid, this is not true!" The political shakeup highlights growing internal tensions within Likud ahead of upcoming elections.