Likud MK Moshe Saada Seeks Justice Minister Role, Responds to Support from Rabbi Pinto

Moshe Saada, a Likud member of Knesset and former deputy head of the Police Investigations Department (Mahash), announced his intention to become Israel's next justice minister in a Thursday interview on 103fm. Saada acknowledged his limited grassroots presence within Likud but emphasized his professional parliamentary work and commitment to honesty as reasons for his primary election success.

Saada addressed recent reports about receiving support from Rabbi Yoshiyahu Pinto, who was convicted of bribery and obstruction of justice. Saada clarified that the encouragement came from a police officer involved in a case he prosecuted, not directly from Pinto. He recounted how the officer, after serving a prison sentence for planting explosives in Nahariya, contacted him to express pride and support for Saada's political career, even wishing him to become justice minister.

Highlighting his familiarity with the judicial system, Saada said he plans to formally offer his candidacy for justice minister, stressing the need for judicial reform. He noted that despite other contenders like Tali Gottlieb, he maintains good relations within the party and respects Prime Minister Netanyahu's ultimate decision. Saada also commented on the Likud list composition, advocating for adding "reservists, bereaved families, and representatives reflecting the October 7 events," even if it might reduce his own standing.

When asked about potential candidates for reserved spots on the Likud list, Saada declined to specify names, emphasizing the party's broad, non-sectoral nature. He suggested that Netanyahu will consider candidates who can add value and votes rather than merely preserve the list's composition.