Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett unveiled his Hayachad party's preliminary candidate list on Sunday, triggering sharp criticism from several Israeli journalists over the placement of Jonathan Shalev in the 10th position. The controversy centers on Shalev's high ranking despite his limited experience, particularly when compared to other candidates further down the list, including Vladimir Beliak, a former deputy director of the Mossad intelligence agency, who was placed in the 16th spot.
Journalist Amit Segal highlighted the stark contrast between Shalev's age and military rank versus Beliak's credentials. "Forgive me, but in what world is a 21-year-old staff sergeant positioned two spots ahead of a deputy Mossad chief?" Segal wrote.
Michael Shemesh also focused on the positioning gap, noting: "Jonathan Shalev about 6 spots above Vladimir Beliak. Interesting."
Josh Breiner questioned why Shalev received what he characterized as a guaranteed Knesset seat. While expressing appreciation for Shalev's military service, Breiner wrote: "Tell me, Jonathan Shalev. With all respect for his military service, I admit the man somehow flew under my radar and honestly seems like a good guy, but if I may ask: on what basis and why is he receiving a guaranteed seat in the next Knesset?"
Journalist Haim Levinson delivered perhaps the sharpest rebuke, connecting Shalev's placement to Beliak's lower position. "A joke that Jonathan Shalev is 6 spots above Vladimir Beliak. Sad," Levinson wrote.
