Tzachi Hanegbi Shifts Support from Likud to Liberman
Tzachi Hanegbi, a former long-time senior member of the Likud party and National Security Advisor under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has declared that he will not support his former party in the upcoming elections. Instead, he will cast his vote for Avigdor Liberman's Yisrael Beytenu. In a column published in Yedioth Aharonoth, Hanegbi elaborated on his decision, expressing his discontent with the current trajectory of the Israeli right and his inability to align with some of the positions held by right-wing parties.
Hanegbi noted that this election marks a significant change for him, as it will be the first time since 1977 that he will not vote for the Likud list, a party he has been associated with for decades. He emphasized the importance of making a conscious choice rather than simply voting out of habit. Despite his right-wing worldview, Hanegbi distanced himself from what he described as the messianic and racist elements within the right, as well as those who remain silent in the face of nationalist violence.
One of Hanegbi's primary criticisms was directed at the issue of haredi conscription. He expressed confusion over how right-wing politicians can justify supporting mass exemptions from military service for a significant portion of the population. He stated that the current political climate, where some right-wing factions advocate for disregarding IDF enlistment, is unacceptable, especially in light of the recent October 7th Massacre and ongoing security challenges.
Hanegbi's Concerns on Military Exemptions
Hanegbi acknowledged that previous governments he served in also struggled with this issue but argued that the current situation poses a direct threat to Israel's existence. He specifically chose to support Liberman, whom he has known for nearly fifty years, due to Liberman's consistent stance on addressing the threat posed by Hamas in Gaza. Hanegbi recalled that Liberman's warnings about the dangers of Hamas were not taken seriously by other leaders, a situation that tragically culminated in the October 7th Massacre.
Intelligence Reviewed
In his column, Hanegbi portrayed Liberman as a leader who remains committed to right-wing principles while opposing religious coercion and protecting the independence of the judicial system. He concluded by expressing his belief that Liberman embodies a respectful and unifying figure within the right, capable of upholding national principles without succumbing to divisive rhetoric.
Hanegbi's decision to support Liberman could have significant implications for the upcoming elections, as it reflects a broader discontent among some right-wing voters regarding the current leadership and policies of the Likud party. His criticisms may resonate with other constituents who share similar concerns about the direction of the right and the handling of national security issues. As the elections approach, the dynamics within the right-wing camp may shift, potentially influencing voter behavior and party strategies.
