Odelia Kadmi Frames Upcoming Israeli Elections as a Battle Over Jewish Identity

Odelia Kadmi, head of the election campaign for the Tekuma movement and organizer of the Right-wing Conference in Tel Aviv, asserts that the upcoming Israeli elections transcend party politics and leadership rivalries. She argues the core issue is a redefinition of the right-wing camp and the Jewish identity of the State of Israel. Kadmi highlights that recent years, especially following the war, have blurred previously clear distinctions between right and left, leading to confusion within the right-wing about its own identity.

Kadmi points to the controversy surrounding the military conscription law as a key example of internal divisions within the national camp, emphasizing the need for renewed unity. She criticizes the political handling of the law, accusing the left of exploiting weaknesses in the right-wing and dismissing genuine efforts to integrate the ultra-Orthodox community into military service. Kadmi warns that the political nature of the debate has caused confusion and internal traps within the right-wing.

She expresses concern about the emergence of new parties within the right-wing bloc, cautioning that not all new formations strengthen the camp. Kadmi stresses that the fundamental question is how right and left are defined today, noting that the Palestinian state issue has receded and the primary conflict now centers on Jewish identity. She describes the elections as a decisive moment for voters to prioritize Jewish identity.

Regarding relations with the ultra-Orthodox community, Kadmi acknowledges complexity but insists the Haredi sector belongs within the right-wing camp. She believes the ultra-Orthodox have learned from recent political developments and must engage fully in the broader right-wing struggles, including judicial reform.

Kadmi admits personal concern about the election outcome, fearing the consequences if the left gains power, but remains hopeful and calls on right-wing voters to ensure high turnout. She emphasizes that increasing voter participation is essential for achieving the unity and decisive victory she envisions for the right-wing camp.