Amichai Shikli Reveals Netanyahu Rival Bennett Offered Him Ambassador Role to Leave Knesset

Amichai Shikli, Israel's Minister for the Diaspora and Combating Antisemitism, sharply criticized former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and former MK Ayelet Shaked during a Likud political conference in Petah Tikva on Sunday. Shikli, who initially entered the Knesset with the Yamina party but left over its coalition with center-left and Arab parties, disclosed behind-the-scenes details about the formation of the so-called "change government," which he opposed. He revealed that Bennett offered him an ambassadorial position, saying, "Be head of the Jewish Agency, take any role you want, just get out of the Knesset."

Shikli also mocked the political experience and media popularity of his former party leaders, noting that despite their celebrity status, Bennett after serving as Education Minister and Shaked after Justice Minister, they failed to pass the electoral threshold in subsequent elections. Looking ahead to future elections, Shikli warned against the fragmentation of right-wing factions, expressing concern that small parties with large egos could cost the national camp valuable seats. He urged these smaller parties to unite or step aside, emphasizing the risk of losing mandates to the opposition.

The minister's remarks highlight ongoing tensions within the right-wing political camp in Israel and underscore the challenges of coalition-building and electoral strategy ahead of upcoming elections.