Yuli Edelstein Announces New Zionist Right Party Aiming for Broad Government Coalition

In a radio interview on 103fm, Yuli Edelstein sharply criticized the Likud party, expressing his discontent with its current direction and announcing his departure to form a new political faction called "Zionist Right." He condemned Likud's handling of the military draft issue, stating that hundreds of thousands of reservists feel insulted and that the party's political maneuvers come at a political cost. Edelstein accused Likud of falsely attacking the IDF Chief of Staff and described the party's actions as a "political act and a mix of nonsense."

Edelstein explained that he no longer finds a place within the current Likud and intends to establish a new framework representing his worldview. The new faction will promote the military draft law and judicial reform with broad consensus, aiming to form a wide Zionist government rather than a narrow coalition. He emphasized openness to cooperation with any party and stated that whoever gains the broadest support should lead the government. He dismissed the idea of forming a narrow 61-seat coalition as contrary to his goals.

Regarding potential partners, Edelstein mentioned ongoing contacts with figures such as Gilad Erdan and Ayelet Shaked, while noting that Hili Tropper and Yoaz Hendel are pursuing independent paths. He also criticized the recent temporary order preventing the arrest of draft dodgers among yeshiva students, asserting that no one will be arrested under this law because all will be recognized as yeshiva students.

Edelstein also commented on the Knesset vote, suggesting that ultra-Orthodox parties demanded Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's presence, and praised Netanyahu's understanding of the public damage caused by the current political situation.