Likud's Dudi Amsalem Welcomes Gadi Eizenkot to Join Party Amid Primary Dispute

Dudi Amsalem, Likud minister for Regional Cooperation and liaison between the government and Knesset, spoke on 103FM on August 5, 2026, addressing the party's primary elections and the potential challenge posed by former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot. Amsalem supported the Likud court's decision to bar current MKs and ministers from running in regional primaries, calling it a fair move to promote new leadership within the party. He emphasized that the Likud has a long-standing democratic tradition of leadership renewal without protected spots, which strengthens the party.

Regarding the internal party conflict over primary procedures and the introduction of reserved slots shortly before elections, Amsalem stressed that Likud belongs to its 150,000 members, not any individual, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He praised Netanyahu as the most capable leader for Israel during its current existential threats, citing the country's multiple fronts and crises. Amsalem argued that leadership choice should be based on ability to lead the nation through danger rather than personal affinity.

On Gadi Eizenkot, who is seen as a contender against Likud, Amsalem expressed that Eizenkot's natural place would be within Likud. He noted that most former IDF chiefs of staff join political parties like Likud and mature into leadership roles over time. While acknowledging Eizenkot's military background and his association with a more left-leaning circle, Amsalem said he would welcome Eizenkot if he embraced Likud's policies, especially regarding security and relations with Palestinians after the October 7 attacks. Amsalem concluded that if Eizenkot aligns with Likud's stance, he would support his joining the party.

This interview highlights ongoing tensions within Likud ahead of elections, the party's efforts to maintain internal democracy, and the potential political realignment involving prominent military figures like Eizenkot.