Dan Illouz Joins Avigdor Lieberman’s Yisrael Beiteinu, Criticizes Netanyahu on Draft Law

Dan Illouz, a former Likud Knesset member who resigned from the party last month, has officially joined Yisrael Beiteinu, led by Avigdor Lieberman. Illouz, a lawyer by profession who immigrated to Israel from Canada, has a background that includes military service in the IDF, work at the Foreign Ministry, and serving on Jerusalem’s city council before his election to the Knesset with Likud.

During his tenure in the Knesset, Illouz was a vocal opponent of the controversial draft evasion law, leading efforts in the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee against it. His stance reportedly cost him politically, including removal from committees and restrictions on submitting bills. Illouz urged Likud voters to support Lieberman, stating that those who want "true right-wing" leadership should vote for Yisrael Beiteinu.

Lieberman welcomed Illouz’s arrival, praising his integrity, courage, and commitment to principles, particularly regarding equality in military service. He described Illouz’s addition as a significant boost to the Zionist, national, and liberal camp. Illouz emphasized that Yisrael Beiteinu represents those who believe in Zionism, national responsibility, and a Jewish, Zionist, and liberal state, aligning with the legacies of Jabotinsky and Begin.

This political move is seen as a potential game-changer ahead of upcoming elections, signaling a consolidation of right-wing and nationalist forces under Lieberman’s leadership and further challenging Prime Minister Netanyahu’s position on the draft law and broader right-wing agenda.