Saul Meridor Criticizes Netanyahu's Eden Ben Zaken Concert Visit and Gadi Eizenkot's Security

Saul Meridor, a candidate from the Yashar party, sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to attend a concert by Israeli singer Eden Ben Zaken. Speaking on 103FM on August 23, 2026, Meridor expressed skepticism about Netanyahu and his entourage's familiarity with the singer's songs, saying, "I fear neither he nor the others know the words." He added ironically that perhaps they might at least enjoy the music.

Meridor emphasized that the upcoming elections are too important to focus on whether Netanyahu attended the concert. Instead, he urged the prime minister to engage more directly with the public rather than making symbolic gestures from a stage, stating, "These are customs of kings, not leaders of the people."

Additionally, Meridor addressed the controversy surrounding the refusal to provide Shin Bet security protection for former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot. He called this refusal a risk Israel cannot afford to take, highlighting concerns about Eizenkot's safety.

The remarks come amid the 2026 election campaign, with Meridor criticizing both Netanyahu's public appearances and the state's security decisions regarding prominent figures like Eizenkot.