A split on the Left: Lazimi supports Ben-Gurion Airport committee chair despite Bennett's criticism

MK Naama Lazimi of the Democrats party, a partner of Naftali Bennett in the bloc, came out on Thursday in defense of the chairman of the Israel Airports Authority workers' committee, Pinchas Idan. This occurred against the backdrop of sharp criticism directed at him following the strike at Ben-Gurion Airport and despite the condemnation previously published by Bennett.

In a tweet, Lazimi wrote that although she and Idan are not from the same party and are politically divided, his move is one "that requires courage."

"It takes courage to see a historic and important moment for a nation and to take action against one's political home, not out of personal interest but national," she wrote, adding that Idan will be remembered positively in history.

Lazimi continued by attacking Idan's critics—including Bennett—hinting at hypocrisy on their part. According to her, supporters of the reform suddenly became opponents of workers, especially when the workers' leaders are Mizrahi, like Pinchas Idan. She concluded her remarks by telling the critics, "we see you," and noted that those who thought elected officials in the coalition would protect the right to strike should "wake up."

Lazimi's words come at a time when other potential political partners in the bloc, including figures from Bennett's camp, attacked the strike at Ben-Gurion Airport, claiming it was a political maneuver. This occurred amidst chaos at the airport during one of the busiest days of the summer, when check-in procedures were halted, flights were delayed, and heavy congestion built up throughout the facility.

Nearly 100,000 passengers and about 600 flights were scheduled to pass through the airport while committee chairman Pinchas Idan stood at the center of the event. The Israel Airports Authority claimed the disruptions were carried out under the instruction of the workers' committee and even considered an urgent appeal to the Labor Court. The committee denied that an order was given to shut down the airport, citing manpower shortages. Eventually, after talks between Idan and the Authority's management, the Israel Airports Authority announced that employees had returned to full activity and that efforts would be made to increase manpower.