I became part of Likud the moment I got my ID card, even before I had set up a lease, opened a bank account, or learned much Hebrew. I was staying on a mattress in a yeshiva, but with that ID card, I filled out the membership application.
### A Leap of Belief
For those who have made aliyah, you understand the pull of a deeper conviction. It isn’t about financial gain; it’s about faith in Israel’s future. You arrive because you believe in certain ideals, and once settled, you want your voice to contribute to the democratic process. My journey began rooted in Zionism.
### Principles That Matter
My decision to enter public life, and specifically to align with the Likud party, was driven by four key beliefs: a commitment to a free economy that reduces prices, establishing sovereignty over the Land of Israel, securing a definitive victory over our adversaries, and ensuring that every citizen contributes to defense. A Jewish state that allows one community to avoid service is no longer unified.
These principles have been my guiding light in politics. They sustained me through challenging times, including wartime losses and personal sacrifices in my political career. Notably, I relinquished my Knesset seat because of my dedication to the fourth principle—universal military service.
### A Disheartening Revelation
Over time, I realized a disconcerting truth that cost me many friendships within the party: While Likud continues to profess support for these four principles, it actively takes steps to sidestep their realization. It’s no longer the party I believed in.
### Seeking True Representation
If you resonate with these values, I urge you to consider Yisrael Beytenu as an alternative. Allow me to elaborate on why, addressing each principle and highlighting achievements rather than mere rhetoric.
Let’s begin with the principle of victory, which weighs heavily on my mind. In December 2016, then-Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman issued a stark memo warning Prime Minister Netanyahu and military leaders about Hamas’s plans to escalate conflicts into Israeli territory, suggesting the need for serious action to avoid disaster. Ignoring this warning led to severe consequences, highlighting the disparity between rhetoric and action.
### Sovereignty and Economic Principles
Moving to sovereignty, promises have been made for years—yet, Netanyahu has repeatedly blocked related legislation. For Liberman, who lives in Nokdim, the idea of regaining sovereignty reflects his unwavering commitment to Israeli land. The economic landscape also highlights a stark contrast. As finance minister, Liberman implemented essential reforms that opened Israeli markets, while subsequent administrations yielded to lobby pressures, worsening the financial burden on families across the country.
### Commitment to Service
Lastly, we must address the principle of service. In 2019, Liberman refused party alignment unless military draft laws passed intact, leading to political upheaval. Unlike other parties, Yisrael Beytenu stood firm on principles even when it meant sacrificing power, demonstrating a real commitment to unity within Israel.
In conclusion, I haven’t changed my ideals. My dedication to these values remains steadfast, but I sought a party that actively defends them. For those of us who made aliyah, it is essential to back a party that will uphold our shared values. Let’s use our vote on October 27 to support what truly matters. The choice is clear; there’s a place that embodies our beliefs.