Gilad Erdan Rebuts Likud's Attack, Accuses Party of Betraying Right-Wing Voters

Gilad Erdan, chairman of the New Party, responded sharply to Likud's recent criticism of him and his partner Yuli Edelstein. Likud had labeled them "bitter fake right-wingers," accusing them of trying to steal votes and support a left-wing coalition. Erdan countered by accusing Likud leadership of betraying right-wing voters by perpetuating draft evasion and abandoning soldiers' families, shifting the debate to the issue of ultra-Orthodox enlistment.

Erdan emphasized that those failing to change the current draft situation do not represent right-wing voters' wishes. He also recalled his and Edelstein's opposition to the 2005 disengagement from Gush Katif, contrasting it with Likud's current leadership, which he said supported the evacuation. This response followed Likud's official statement branding Erdan and Edelstein as disloyal right-wingers aiding a leftist government led by figures like Gadi Eizenkot and Yair Golan.

The conflict escalated after Erdan revealed in a recent interview that Likud had offered him a secured spot on their election list, which he rejected. He explained his refusal by stating he does not want to return to a system where he cannot lead or be the primary figure. Likud initially denied that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu offered Erdan any such position, but later issued a harsh statement against him and Edelstein.