Gottlieb Threatens to Leave Likud Over Knesset Seat

Likud MK Tali Gottlieb has threatened Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that she will consider leaving the party if she is not placed in a more favorable position on the Knesset list. Gottlieb, who was ranked towards the end of the second ten in the Likud primaries, reportedly told Netanyahu she expects a "reserved seat" at number 12 or she will explore other options. The Likud party has dismissed her ultimatum, stating it was rejected outright.

In closed-door conversations, Gottlieb has also launched a sharp attack against Netanyahu, accusing him of striking a "deal" for immunity from prosecution in exchange for shelving the judicial reform. Exclusive recordings broadcast by N12 reveal Gottlieb telling supporters, "The Prime Minister will receive immunity, provided there is no judicial reform, and provided there is no touch, even the slightest, on the Supreme Court justices and their powers." She claimed Netanyahu is pushing her down the list because he knows her ambition is to become Justice Minister, but he has a "deal in hand."

Netanyahu had reportedly sought to sideline Gottlieb, fearing her outspokenness could alienate voters. However, her current placement still leaves her in a realistic position to be elected to the next Knesset, and she may pose a significant challenge to him during the upcoming campaign.