MK Benny Begin, the son of former Prime Minister Menachem Begin, explained in an interview with Reshet Bet Sunday that his decision to retire from politics is based on his age and not an ideological disagreement with New Hope chairman Minister Gideon Sa'ar's decision to run together with Defense Minister Benny Gant'z Blue and White party.
"It's time, I'm getting close to 80 years old. My friend Gantz is talking about an entity that will be established in Judea and Samaria. It may not be far from the idea of autonomy raised by the Likud 40 years ago. This is my position and our position in New Hope," said Begin.
He dismissed Interior Minister Ayelet Shaked and Communications Minister Yoaz Hendel's announcement of the new 'Zionist Spirit' party. "She defined herself as the kindergarten teacher of the political system - I think this is the first time I've heard that a person has taken on such a role. She will transfer the votes of people defined as right-wing to Netanyahu and his friends, furthering their plans and their plots to harm democracy. It's transparent."
On Thursday, Begin informed the chairman of the New Hope party, Justice Minister Gideon Sa'ar, that, due to the fact that he will soon turn 80, he has decided that at this age he would not continue to serve in the next Knesset.
Minister Sa'ar thanked Begin for agreeing to his request, on the eve of the previous elections, to join New Hope, as well as for his dedicated and professional work in the Knesset and its committees.
Begin announced that he will remain a member of New Hope and that he will take part in the election campaign as part of "Blue and White-New Hope" united slate. Minister Sa'ar thanked him for his decision.
Prime Minister Yair Lapid wrote on Twitter following Begin's announcement: "Benny, the Israeli Knesset today is losing a first-class public envoy, moral, hard-working and one who maintains a respectful and unifying discourse even with those who disagree with him. I am sure that you will continue to serve the public and contribute to Israeli society off the political field as well. Good luck, my dear friend."