MK Dan Illouz Joins Avigdor Lieberman's Yisrael Beiteinu Party

MK Dan Illouz announced on Wednesday his departure from the Likud party and his joining of Yisrael Beiteinu, led by Avigdor Lieberman. Illouz left Likud due to his strong opposition to the controversial military draft law. As part of the agreement, Illouz secured a realistic spot on Yisrael Beiteinu's list for the upcoming Knesset elections. Previously elected to the Knesset on the Likud list representing immigrants and a former Jerusalem city council member, Illouz was a prominent voice within the coalition opposing the draft law. His stance led to significant political consequences, including removal from Knesset committees and losing the right to submit private bills.

Upon joining Yisrael Beiteinu, Illouz expressed support for Lieberman as prime minister and sharply criticized Likud's leadership, accusing it of becoming an executor for Shas leaders Aryeh Deri and Yitzhak Goldknopf. Illouz called on Likud supporters seeking genuine right-wing representation to vote for Yisrael Beiteinu, praising Lieberman as a strong, experienced leader who stands by his principles despite political costs. Lieberman welcomed Illouz's move, highlighting his courage, integrity, and commitment to fighting the draft law and promoting equal burden-sharing. He described Illouz's addition as a significant boost to the Zionist, national, and liberal camp.