Right-Wing Panel Debates Religious Zionist Primaries and Likud List Changes Amid Political Tensions
In the recent episode of the political talk show "Iron Dome," hosted by Netanel Izak, panelists including Yossi Ben Ater, Yishai Cohen, strategic advisor Avi Widerman, and former MK Oren Hazan discussed key issues affecting the right-wing, religious, and ultra-Orthodox communities in Israel. The conversation focused on the Religious Zionist party's internal primaries, changes in the Likud party's candidate selection process, remarks by MK Uri Maklev about the national-religious public, and the ongoing tensions in Judea and Samaria.
The panel debated the significance of the Religious Zionist primaries, which placed Orit Strook, Simcha Rothman, and Tzvi Sukkot at the top of the list. Widerman expressed skepticism about the primaries' representativeness, calling it "a light puff" involving "180 Ashkenazim choosing themselves." Ben Ater criticized party leader Bezalel Smotrich's dominant control, warning that some national-religious voters, especially outside Judea and Samaria settlements, feel unrepresented. Conversely, Cohen praised Smotrich's achievements within the coalition, highlighting his success in advancing the agenda and securing budgets, including support from the Haredi community.
Regarding the Likud party, the panel examined recent changes to the primary election rules. Cohen noted a tension between Likud voters and party members, suggesting Prime Minister Netanyahu fears losing votes with the current candidate list and aims to balance strong primary candidates with broader appeal. Hazan predicted Netanyahu would avoid holding primaries altogether to minimize risks, potentially sidelining some prominent figures. Widerman defended the traditional primary system for cultivating leadership but worried new rules favor incumbents avoiding national contests. Ben Ater acknowledged the changes altered Likud's democratic nature but affirmed the party's enduring grassroots strength.
The discussion also addressed controversial comments by MK Uri Maklev criticizing the national-religious sector over Torah study and military service. Cohen condemned the remarks as "bad and unnecessary," emphasizing respect for religious soldiers. Ben Ater and Widerman echoed the criticism, with Widerman calling for honesty about a group he described as "disconnected." Hazan distinguished between criticism of Haredi leadership and respect for Torah study, while opposing protection for those not studying or serving.
Additional segments included Hazan's harsh critique of activist Moshe Redman for his stance on settlements, Ben Ater's rebuke of Itamar Ben-Gvir for dividing the right, and Cohen's condemnation of threats against Channel 12 news offices. Hazan praised David Bitan and the Likud movement for their dedication to preserving the party's core values despite personal costs.
The program highlighted ongoing ideological and strategic debates within Israel's right-wing and religious political spheres, reflecting broader tensions over representation, leadership, and national identity.
