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 and are pressuring her by distributing lists to Likud members urging them not to support her. She described this as "blackmail" and vowed not to yield to such pressure, affirming her commitment to bring in low-cost carriers like Wizz Air to break El Al's monopoly and benefit Israeli consumers.

Regev expressed confidence that most Likud members understand her actions serve the public interest and will support her in the primaries. She also criticized political rivals, notably Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the Yisrael party, questioning his leadership capabilities and accusing him of relying on controversial alliances. Regev described the primary day as a "happy morning" and "true democracy," defending the extensive reserved spots on the party list as a decision by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to strengthen Likud.

Additionally, Regev discussed her use of artificial intelligence in her digital campaign, including updating a 2022 photo with Netanyahu to appear current. She emphasized her close relationship with Netanyahu as genuine and heartwarming. Toward the interview's end, Regev shared emotional details about her daughter Michal's engagement; Michal survived the October 7 Nova party massacre, having escaped with a friend who was connected to a victim of the attack.

The controversy highlights tensions between Regev and El Al amid efforts to liberalize Israel's aviation sector, set against the backdrop of the ongoing Likud leadership contest involving approximately 173,000 party members.