Energy Minister Eli Cohen Rejects Reserved Knesset Seats, Emphasizes Strength Against Hezbollah

Eli Cohen, Israel's Energy Minister and member of the Likud party, expressed his preference for competing in the party primaries rather than receiving a reserved slot on the Knesset list. Speaking on Radio North 104.5FM on August 17, 2026, Cohen stated that although he was offered a high reserved position (second or third on the list), he chose to forgo it in favor of earning voter support through primaries. He highlighted the importance of direct voter feedback and praised the transparency of Likud’s candidate selection, where 75% of the list is chosen by the public, contrasting it with other parties where leaders decide the entire list.

Cohen also addressed Israel’s security situation, asserting that the country has never been stronger. He noted Iran’s current weakness and claimed that Israel has established a security buffer zone inside enemy territory, ensuring that residents near the Gaza border can sleep safely at night. He emphasized Israel’s readiness to respond forcefully to any attacks, rejecting any policy of restraint.

Regarding Lebanon and Hezbollah, Cohen said that foundations for peace with Lebanon have been laid but stressed the necessity of disarming Hamas as a precondition. He mentioned frustration within Hezbollah due to an agreement led by U.S. Senator Marco Rubio that demands Hezbollah’s disarmament, a stance supported even within Lebanon. Cohen added that Israel controls 60% of the Gaza border area and key crossings, and recently thwarted several Hezbollah operatives. He described the dire conditions in Gaza, noting a high demand for housing amid widespread destruction.

Cohen’s remarks reflect his confidence in Israel’s security posture and his commitment to democratic processes within Likud ahead of upcoming elections.