Netanyahu Declares Himself Likud's Ethiopian Representative in Pre-Election Blitz
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared himself the primary representative of the Ethiopian-Israeli community during a media interview, urging voters to support Likud and avoid splitting the right-wing bloc ahead of the elections.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has positioned himself as the primary political representative for Israel's Ethiopian-Israeli community, declaring during a media blitz ahead of the upcoming elections that he is effectively the community's realistic candidate within the Likud party.
Speaking in an interview with the community channel IETV, Netanyahu responded to criticisms regarding the lack of a prominent Ethiopian candidate in realistic slots on the Likud list. "There is an Ethiopian candidate in Likud, his name is Benjamin Netanyahu," he stated, highlighting his record of absorbing thousands of Ethiopian immigrants, chairing the ministerial committee for their advancement, and combating racism and police violence. He dismissed token representation arranged by other factions as mere theatrical performance.
Addressing national security, Netanyahu underscored Israel's regional deterrence, particularly regarding Iran. He asserted that Iran and its regional proxies have been significantly weakened, noting that Israel has completed the vast majority of strategic objectives but must now prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear capabilities. He also emphasized the steadfast support of US President Donald Trump, arguing that Washington's backing depends on his continued leadership.
Netanyahu contrasted his security doctrine with what he termed a weak opposition, targeting political rivals including Gadi Eisenkot and Mansour Abbas. He warned voters against casting ballots for marginal parties, stressing that the current electoral race is deadlocked and every vote will prove decisive in determining the next government.
