Guy Peleg Criticizes Yoaz Hendel's Party and Election Strategy as Worrisome
During his radio show on 103fm, Israeli journalist and host Guy Peleg discussed the upcoming elections and the statements of former Communications Minister Yoaz Hendel. Hendel had declared he would not join Arab parties or sit in a government led by Benjamin Netanyahu. A listener questioned Hendel and Hili Tropper's political stance, noting their refusal to align with Arab parties or Netanyahu, and asked who they would partner with to form a majority.
Peleg described Hendel and Tropper's party as "mysterious" and questioned its core purpose, especially since other parties are courting them for coalition spots. He wondered why they do not openly join figures like Gadi Eisenkot, Avigdor Lieberman, or Naftali Bennett to reach the 61-seat majority. Peleg expressed concern that their ambiguous positioning might harm the opposition bloc's chances to defeat the current government.
He contrasted their approach with that of Mansour Abbas, who is transparent about his positions. Peleg also highlighted Hendel's past political courage, including standing up to Netanyahu and exposing misconduct in the Prime Minister's Office, but warned that Hendel's party is unlikely to pass the electoral threshold according to polls. He noted that the emergence of Ron Winter's party could further reduce Hendel's support.
In closing, Peleg criticized Hendel's apparent overconfidence, pointing out that Hendel rejects alliances with Arabs, ultra-Orthodox parties, and even Yair Golan, despite low poll numbers. Peleg urged Hendel to show humility, saying, "You are not passing the threshold, my friend. A little modesty is needed."