Eli Cohen on the Likud slots: "They said I'd get 2nd or 3rd place, I said I prefer elections"

Energy Minister Eli Cohen (Likud) said in an interview with Radio North that he prefers to compete in the primaries over a reserved slot, and recounted that he was told he would get 2nd or 3rd place on the list. He claimed that Israel is stronger than ever, that Iran is at its weakest point since 1979, and called for Hamas's disarmament as a condition for peace with Lebanon.

Energy Minister Eli Cohen (Likud), a member of the political-security cabinet, said in an interview with Radio North 104.5FM that he prefers to compete in the primaries over a reserved slot. According to him, when the possibility of an arranging committee came up, he was told he would get 2nd or 3rd place on the list, but he replied: "Friends, I prefer elections." He added that 75% of the list is elected in primaries, unlike other parties where the party leader determines the list, and noted that there are more than 100 members who want to run. Cohen also addressed the security situation: "The State of Israel has never been stronger, Iran is at its weakest point since 1979." He said that the enemies are not on the fence, and that residents of communities near the fence can sleep well at night. Regarding Hezbollah, he claimed that the US-led agreement stipulates disarmament, and that the foundations for peace with Lebanon have been laid, but the basic condition is Hamas's disarmament. He noted that Israel controls 60% of the Strip's territory and the crossings, including the Philadelphi Corridor.