Transport Minister Regev Accuses El Al Workers Union of Political Sabotage Amid Likud Primaries

Israeli Transport Minister Miri Regev accused the El Al workers union of attempting a political assassination against her during the Likud party primaries held on August 17, 2026. In a 103FM radio interview, Regev claimed that elements within El Al oppose her efforts to introduce low-cost airlines to Israel, viewing it as a threat to the national carrier. She said the union distributed a list to its members urging them not to support her in the primaries, describing this as blackmail and intimidation.

Regev emphasized that she would not yield to pressure, stating her determination to bring a low-cost airline such as Wizz Air to Israel to break El Al’s monopoly and benefit the public. She expressed confidence that most Likud members understand her actions serve Israeli citizens’ interests and will vote for her accordingly.

The minister also criticized her political rivals, particularly Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the Yisrael party, questioning his leadership abilities and accusing him of relying on controversial alliances. Regev described the primary day as a "happy morning" and "true democracy," supporting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decisions on candidate list reservations.

Additionally, Regev acknowledged using artificial intelligence in her digital campaign, including updating photos to appear current. She shared a personal note about her daughter Michal’s engagement; Michal survived the October 7 Nova party massacre, and Regev recounted the harrowing escape of Michal’s fiancé, a survivor who walked eight hours after the attack.

The conflict highlights tensions between government efforts to liberalize Israel’s aviation market and established interests within El Al, set against the backdrop of the Likud party’s internal elections.