Shimon Riklin Warns Netanyahu's Office Against Attacking Tali Gottlieb Ahead of Likud Primaries

Shimon Riklin, a Channel 14 presenter, publicly defended Likud MK Tali Gottlieb on Sunday, criticizing the briefings from Prime Minister Netanyahu's office that targeted her. Riklin argued that these attacks are not only unfair but could also harm the right-wing's chances in the upcoming elections. He emphasized that Gottlieb's positions resonate with many right-wing voters and that her candidacy might actually mobilize them to vote.

Riklin suggested that the results of the Likud primaries, scheduled for Monday, will test pollsters' claims that the public is shifting toward the center and left. He predicted the opposite, saying the public is moving rightward, which could weaken candidates like Dichter and Barkat who represent more centrist views. He described Gottlieb as symbolizing a political awakening within Likud, moving away from old-style politics and submission to elite interests.

He also noted a significant change in Netanyahu himself following the events of October 7, portraying him as having shifted from a defensive to a more aggressive stance. Riklin questioned why Netanyahu would prevent others from undergoing a similar transformation. Highlighting voter turnout as a critical factor, Riklin claimed that Gottlieb's supporters are more likely to vote compared to those backing politicians who have been absent during struggles against the High Court.

While acknowledging that some may disagree with Gottlieb's style, Riklin affirmed the correctness of her core positions and called on Netanyahu's office to stop the increasingly intense briefings against her. He dismissed concerns that Gottlieb might join Otzma Yehudit after the elections as unfounded. Riklin concluded by expressing confidence in Likud voters' wisdom to choose candidates genuinely committed to change rather than those seeking comfort in the Knesset.