Right-Wing Party Split Debated Amid Likud Primaries and New Faction Formation

In a recent episode of the "Iron Dome" panel on Srugim, hosted by Netanel Izak, key political developments within Israel's right-wing landscape were discussed. The panelists included Srugim editor Aryeh Yoeli, strategic advisors Avi Widerman and Pini Bano, and activist content creator Or Barak. The conversation covered rumors of an Arab deception plan against Israel, internal Likud party dramas ahead of its primaries, and the emergence of a new right-wing party involving Gilad Erdan, Yuli Edelstein, and Aliza Bloch.

Regarding the alleged Arab plan to deceive Israel by signing peace agreements while preparing for war, Widerman expressed skepticism, calling it political propaganda, while Yoeli criticized censorship on the topic. Barak reminded viewers of the Middle East's history of fragile agreements, emphasizing military strength as essential.

The panel then focused on the Likud primaries, highlighting tensions over Netanyahu's reserved spots on the party list, which some see as favoring Ashkenazi candidates while relying on Mizrahi voters. Yoeli noted the power struggles within the party, lamenting the difficult position of lower-ranked candidates. Bano explained Netanyahu's strategy to surround himself with loyalists, while Widerman warned that Likud might face a significant drop in polls, potentially pushing Netanyahu toward opposition and needing a core group of loyalists.

The discussion turned to the new party reportedly formed by Erdan, Edelstein, and Bloch. Yoeli viewed this as a positive development for the right, preferring a centrist-right alternative over fringe figures holding the balance of power. Widerman argued the move was coordinated with Netanyahu, especially given their opposition to a state commission of inquiry. Barak criticized the new party's execution and questioned its right-wing credentials due to Bloch's openness to Arab parties.

Finally, the panel debated the controversy surrounding Yair Golan and Einav Tsengauer in the Democratic party, with Barak accusing Golan of cynical manipulation, while Widerman praised Golan's acceptance of responsibility. Bano condemned the left for exploiting Tsengauer. The segment concluded with weekly commendations: Widerman praised Israeli security services for thwarting an Iranian assassination attempt on the US president, Yoeli criticized Spain's border control failures, and Bano honored reservists entering politics. The panel predicted ongoing Likud primary disputes and possible surprises in the party list rankings in the coming weeks.