Netanyahu Advisor Omri Aknunis Says Entire Political System Will Change, Rejects Arab Parties Coalition

Omri Aknunis, former advisor to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and current Likud primary candidate, discussed the question of Netanyahu's successor in an interview with C14. Aknunis emphasized that it is premature to identify Netanyahu's successor now, as the political landscape and key players are likely to change significantly. He expressed hope that Netanyahu remains in leadership for a long time, calling him "the best leader for Israel."

Aknunis dismissed former IDF Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi as a realistic successor candidate, stating he does not see Ashkenazi filling Netanyahu's role. He praised Netanyahu's strategic vision, describing him as highly intelligent and capable of anticipating political developments seven moves ahead. Aknunis also highlighted Netanyahu's openness to advice from his team, noting the prime minister consults "on equal footing" regardless of age or experience.

Recalling a personal moment, Aknunis shared how Netanyahu spontaneously stopped to play soccer with a father and son on the roadside, illustrating his human side beyond politics. When asked about the possibility of Netanyahu relying on Arab parties to form a coalition if a right-wing government fails, Aknunis categorically rejected it, calling such reports fabrications and insisting "there is no chance in the world" this would happen.

The interview sheds light on internal Likud dynamics ahead of upcoming primaries and ongoing speculation about Netanyahu's political future and coalition strategies.