Shaul Meridor Signals Talks With Likud Members to Form Zionist Government With Over 61 Seats
Shaul Meridor, a senior figure in Gadi Eizenkot's Yisra party, revealed in an interview with the "Sari and Schlesinger" podcast that his party is engaging in discussions with Knesset members from Netanyahu's bloc, including Likud, about potential defections to the opposition bloc after the upcoming elections. Meridor emphasized their goal to establish a Zionist government with more than 61 seats, stating, "We have talks with many people from various parties, even on the other side. They are fed up with what they see and cannot tolerate it." He invited anyone who identifies as a Zionist and loyalist to join their government.
Meridor clarified that Yisra will not form a government relying on Mansour Abbas or his party, rejecting support or abstention from them. He stressed that fundamental changes, such as reforming mandatory military service, require more than a minority government dependent on outside support. Meridor also criticized Itamar Ben-Gvir for promoting racism and undermining the principles of Israel's Declaration of Independence, while leaving a conditional opening for Bezalel Smotrich if he aligns with their values. He was sharply critical of the current Likud, saying it has lost its national and liberal identity and only retains its name, though he did not rule out Likud joining a Yisra-led government if it changes course.
Meridor described Yisra as a right-center party with members from diverse political backgrounds, including those inspired by both Jabotinsky and Begin. He expressed confidence that after the elections, all partners will unite behind Gadi Eizenkot as prime minister, dismissing concerns about Naftali Bennett or Avigdor Lieberman leading the next government. Reflecting on his nearly 20 years in public service, including under Finance Minister Israel Katz, Meridor criticized Katz for obstructing budget approvals to oust Netanyahu and condemned the use of "deep state" conspiracy theories as excuses to avoid responsibility.
Looking ahead, Meridor said a government led by Eizenkot would reduce the number of ministries from about 35 to 20-25 by closing around ten, including Strategic Affairs, Diaspora, Jerusalem, Heritage, Social Equality, and the Negev and Galilee portfolios. He identified a lack of strategic planning as a key deficiency in Netanyahu's government, emphasizing that ministers should focus on strategy rather than local issues like swimming pools.
Summary: Shaul Meridor of Yisra disclosed ongoing talks with Likud members about defecting to form a Zionist government with over 61 seats after the elections. He ruled out reliance on Mansour Abbas, criticized current Likud leadership, and expressed confidence in Gadi Eizenkot as prime minister. Meridor also outlined plans to streamline government ministries and stressed the need for strategic governance.
