Son of a Yisrael Beiteinu official and anti-Trump tweets: mixed feelings in Likud following new appointment
Benjamin Netanyahu has worked to reserve a spot on the Likud list for businessman Oren Dobronsky, aiming to appeal to voters. However, the appointment has sparked debate due to Dobronsky's past harsh criticism of Donald Trump and ceasefire policies.
"Meets an important need" or "unnecessary addition"? The first appointment announced on Monday by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was received in Likud with mixed feelings. The discourse was fueled by a series of past social media posts in which Dobronsky sharply criticized US President Donald Trump, as well as the cessation of hostilities against Iran.
"I am furious. A moment before total collapse we are signing a ceasefire," he wrote, for example, in June 2025.
Some senior Likud ministers praised the choice, stating it aligns with Benjamin Netanyahu's desire to present a balanced list of economists and doers. However, several Knesset members labeled the appointment unnecessary, arguing that Dobronsky would struggle to integrate into the Likud field, especially as incumbent MKs fight a desperate battle for their spots in the next Knesset.
Behind the scenes, officials report that Benjamin Netanyahu worked hard to recruit businessman Oren Dobronsky, known to the public from the television program "The Sharks." His father, Eles Dobronsky, has served for years as the head of the Yisrael Beiteinu organizing committee. The Prime Minister believes Dobronsky can help present the "true face" of Likud as a moderate force, contrasting with the party's more hawkish wings.
Reaction and Political Context
Likud sources suggest Dobronsky is viewed as an "updated version" of Nir Barkat—a businessman who understands market mechanisms. However, critics, including senior party figures, point to his closeness to Chief of Staff Ido Norden and his lack of experience in internal party politics: "It has been proven that no one votes because of such additions, and they usually do not understand the Likud field."
Dobronsky's past tweets have also drawn scrutiny. In a post from about two months ago, he harshly criticized Donald Trump for failing to coordinate with Israel during negotiations:
"What kind of morally corrupt person treats an ally like that?"
Additionally, in 2024, Dobronsky wrote regarding the war in the Gaza Strip:
"This war must be won at any cost and Hamas must be destroyed to its last commander and soldier, even while risking that some of the hostages will not return. Victory over Hamas is the supreme goal."
The situation is further complicated by the Tel Aviv District Court's decision to uphold the Likud party court's ruling, which prevents MKs and ministers from running for district slots. This has heightened internal tensions, as many incumbent MKs now face the prospect of being left out of the next Knesset.
