Likud Activist Rami Ben Yehuda Criticizes Gideon Sa'ar and Ze'ev Elkin Ahead of Primaries

Rami Ben Yehuda, a veteran right-wing activist within the Likud party, expressed sharp criticism of key figures during an interview outside the Knesset in Jerusalem amid the Likud primaries. He accused Ze'ev Elkin of damaging the party by facilitating the appointment of Gali Baharav-Miara as Attorney General, a move Ben Yehuda claims harmed Likud's interests. He also strongly condemned Gideon Sa'ar for previously forming a government with the Muslim Brotherhood, stating Sa'ar should not be granted a mandate within the party.

Ben Yehuda emphasized loyalty to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, asserting that candidates opposing Netanyahu or engaging in political deals against him would not succeed in the primaries. He praised several candidates, including Hanoch Milvitsky, Tali Gottlieb, Eli Cohen, and Shikli, highlighting their ideological commitment and opposition to former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett.

Addressing concerns about the ultra-Orthodox community and the contentious draft law, Ben Yehuda urged voters to support Boaz Bismuth, who advocates for a fair conscription law. He stressed the importance of preserving Torah study for those who genuinely study while supporting enlistment for others.

Ben Yehuda predicted that approximately 20 candidates would be eliminated in the primaries. He also referenced his past legal troubles, noting that a previous indictment against him was dropped, with the court upholding his right to free speech over concerns about peace of mind.

The interview reflects ongoing tensions within Likud as the party prepares for internal elections, with debates over ideological purity, loyalty to Netanyahu, and the party's stance on judicial and social issues.