Amichai Shikli Criticizes Gadi Eizenkot as Left-Wing Rival, Defends Right-Wing Credentials

Israeli Diaspora Minister Amichai Shikli responded on Monday to the rising poll numbers of Gadi Eizenkot, chairman of the "Yashar!" party. In an interview on Kan 11's "This Morning" program, Shikli described Eizenkot as a worthy political opponent but emphasized that he is a "distinctly hard-left man." Shikli criticized Eizenkot's recent statements at an INSS conference where Eizenkot called Abu Mohammad al-Julani, the Al-Qaeda leader who violently took control of Syria, an "opportunity." Shikli questioned how Eizenkot could view Julani as an opportunity, especially given Julani's calls for withdrawal from the "yellow line" in Gaza and Lebanon. He also challenged Eizenkot's lack of political experience and legislative achievements.

Shikli compared Eizenkot to former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, whom he sharply criticized as "corrupt, a fraud, and a bad person." Shikli recounted his support for Bennett when they pledged to form a right-wing government and prevent Yair Lapid from becoming prime minister. However, Shikli accused Bennett of breaking all commitments to voters, including issues related to Lapid, Meretz, the formation of a right-wing government, and the coalition's democratic structure. He condemned Bennett's leadership, especially taking the premiership with only six Knesset seats, calling it "ridiculous" and damaging to political stability.

Regarding internal Likud discussions about possibly canceling or changing the party's primary election system, Shikli expressed hope for a balanced approach that would introduce new candidates while respecting the party's grassroots members. He predicted that the number of reserved slots on the party list would be between six and eight and affirmed the importance of holding primaries. Shikli welcomed Prime Minister Netanyahu's desire to bring in new players and urged patience and credit for the prime minister's efforts.

The interview took place amid recent polls showing Eizenkot surpassing Netanyahu and potentially securing a majority, while Bennett's support is declining ahead of the 2026 elections.