Amichai Shikli Criticizes Gadi Eizenkot as Extreme Leftist Amid Political Rivalry

On Monday, Minister of Diaspora Affairs Amichai Shikli responded to the rising poll numbers of Knesset member Gadi Eizenkot, chairman of the Yashar party. Shikli described Eizenkot as a "clear and extreme leftist," despite acknowledging him as a worthy political opponent. He criticized Eizenkot for his recent statements at an INSS conference, where Eizenkot referred to Al-Qaeda leader Al-Julani, who violently took control of Syria, as an "opportunity." Shikli questioned how Eizenkot could view Al-Julani as an opportunity, especially given Al-Julani's calls for withdrawal from the "yellow line" in Gaza and Lebanon. He also challenged Eizenkot's political experience and legislative achievements.

Shikli compared Eizenkot to former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, whom he described as "corrupt, a fraud, and a bad person." Shikli recalled his alliance with Bennett when they vowed 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 those related to Lapid, Meretz, the right-wing government formation, and the democratic structure of the coalition. He condemned Bennett for assuming the premiership with only six Knesset seats, calling it "ridiculous" and destabilizing for coalition negotiations.

Regarding the Likud party primaries, Shikli expressed hope for a balance between introducing new candidates and maintaining the party's core activists. He estimated that the number of reserved spots on the list would be between six and eight and affirmed that primaries would proceed. Shikli emphasized the importance of respecting the party's grassroots members and welcomed Prime Minister Netanyahu's intention to bring in new strengthening players. He concluded by urging patience and credit for the prime minister's approach.