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

Israeli Transport Minister Miri Regev accused the El Al workers union of attempting a political assassination against her amid the Likud party primaries held on August 17, 2026. In a morning interview on 103FM, Regev claimed that elements within El Al are opposing her efforts to introduce low-cost airlines to Israel, which she says threatens the national carrier's monopoly. She stated that El Al released a list targeting Likud members who support her, describing it as "blackmail and threats" intended to influence her decisions.

Regev firmly rejected the pressure, affirming her commitment to bring low-cost carriers like Wizz Air to Israel to benefit the public and reduce airfare monopolies. She emphasized that neither the El Al union nor its management would dictate her policies. Regev expressed confidence that most Likud members understand her actions serve Israeli citizens' interests and will support her in the primaries.

During the interview, Regev also criticized her political rivals, particularly Gadi Eizenkot, leader of the Yisrael party, questioning his leadership and accusing him of relying on controversial alliances. She described the primary voting day, with about 173,000 Likud members participating, as a "happy morning" and a demonstration of "true democracy."

Regev addressed the use of artificial intelligence in her campaign, revealing she edited a 2022 photo of herself and Prime Minister Netanyahu to appear more current. She highlighted her close relationship with Netanyahu and the warm atmosphere between them. Toward the end of the interview, Regev shared emotional details about her daughter Michal’s engagement; Michal is a survivor of the October 7 Nova party massacre. Regev recounted how Michal’s fiancé, a survivor named Nativ, endured a harrowing escape after the attack, underscoring the personal impact of recent events.

The controversy reflects tensions between Regev’s reform agenda and established interests within Israel’s aviation sector, set against the backdrop of the Likud leadership contest.