In Likud, they admit for the first time: "We lost 6–8 mandates because of the draft law"

MK Moshe Saada (Likud) addressed the results of the party primaries, the controversy surrounding the draft law, and the tense relations between Israel and Turkey on Wednesday. Speaking with Gadi Ness on Radio Tzafon 104.5FM, he argued that his success in the primaries proves that one can succeed without internal party deals, and declared his intention to help Likud win back voters who left due to the draft issue.

"These were two intense months during which you meet the beating heart of Likud," Saada said. "I come from the State Attorney's Office, and I have been privileged to know ideological, principled, and warm people who want change in the judicial system." He noted that he received nearly 28,000 votes without holding any ministerial or committee chair positions.

Saada recalled that when he entered politics, many doubted he would last more than one term. "They laughed at me, but I found myself receiving the support of almost 28,000 people," he added.

He expressed support for the possibility of reserved spots on the Likud list to bring in figures of public value. Among those he would like to see on the list, Saada mentioned Itzik Bonzel, Ofer Winter, and Yoseph Haddad.

"There are 6–8 mandates that left Likud because of the draft law"

Saada shared that he spoke with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after the primaries about a strategy to regain lost ground. "I told Netanyahu that I know how to bring back the 6–8 mandates that left Likud because of the draft law. I want to lead this campaign," he claimed.

Regarding Haredi conscription, he emphasized that his principle is to prioritize those who serve: "If you didn't serve, you don't receive. This applies to everyone, not just the Haredim." He also criticized Yisrael Beiteinu chairman Avigdor Lieberman, describing his approach as "endless slogans with zero action."

Attack on the Attorney General: "Wants to bring about the downfall of the right-wing government"

Saada sharply criticized Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara. "Her actions regarding Haredi conscription are an attempt to fuel hatred and bring about the downfall of the right-wing government," he argued, claiming her motives are political.

On Turkey and Syria: "Netanyahu manages complex arenas"

Addressing foreign policy, Saada noted that the Prime Minister is handling international challenges skillfully. "The world perceives Israel after October 7 as a powerful state that sets red lines. There has been a change in security perception: today the state decides and acts decisively," he concluded.