Dan Illouz Joins Yisrael Beiteinu After Winning 2022 Likud Primaries Over Boris Apolichuk

Dan Illouz, who recently left the Likud party to join Yisrael Beiteinu, was previously victorious in the 2022 Likud primaries over Boris Apolichuk for the immigrant slot on the party list. Apolichuk, an immigrant from the former Soviet Union, had criticized Illouz’s win, claiming it was secured through deals made by liberal factions within Likud rather than broad member support. He urged party members to vote for candidates with clear values and no vested interests, warning against the influence of organized groups in primary outcomes.

Illouz’s departure from Likud and his sharp criticism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the party have renewed attention on the 2022 primaries, suggesting that if results had differed, Apolichuk might have entered the Knesset instead. Illouz accused Likud of becoming an executor for Aryeh Deri and Yitzhak Goldknopf, while expressing support for Yisrael Beiteinu leader Avigdor Lieberman as prime minister. Lieberman welcomed Illouz’s move, praising his courage and integrity throughout his political career.

The 2022 primary contest for the immigrant slot was a pivotal moment for both politicians, with Illouz securing his place in the Likud list before switching parties. Apolichuk’s public statements highlight ongoing tensions within Likud regarding candidate selection and internal party dynamics. Illouz’s transition to Yisrael Beiteinu marks a significant political shift ahead of upcoming elections.