In a significant political shift, Israeli lawmaker Yuli Edelstein has announced his decision to exit Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party. This move comes as he seeks to embark on a “new political path” ahead of Israel’s upcoming general election. Edelstein has confirmed that he will not be participating in the Likud’s leadership primaries scheduled for August 4, as he plans to initiate a new political venture.
Edelstein’s departure from Likud is largely attributed to his growing disagreements with the current government, particularly concerning legislation aimed at exempting many ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) men from mandatory military service. A staunch advocate for stricter military service requirements, Edelstein has consistently opposed measures supported by the government that would prevent draft evaders from facing criminal charges. His opposition to these policies led to his removal from his former position as the chairman of the Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee last year.
Speculation is rife that Edelstein is in talks with former Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked and other conservative figures to form a new center-right political alliance. Such an alliance could potentially attract voters looking for alternatives within Israel’s right-wing political landscape. This development adds another layer of complexity to the country’s political scene as parties gear up for the elections expected to take place by late October.
The decision by Edelstein has garnered attention and support from notable figures like former military chief Gadi Eisenkot, who praised Edelstein’s stance on national security and military service. As the political landscape in Israel continues to evolve with these new dynamics, Edelstein’s move could have significant implications for the upcoming elections.