Tali Gottlieb Weighs Move from Likud to Ben Gvir's Party Amid Political Maneuvering

Negotiations regarding a potential move of Knesset Member Tali Gottlieb from the Likud party to Itamar Ben Gvir's Otzma Yehudit party are reportedly advancing, with sources close to the matter indicating the scenario is nearing fruition. Ben Gvir is keen to bring Gottlieb into his party and offer her a prominent position. However, he is awaiting a resolution on her status within Likud and is unlikely to proceed without an explicit request from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

For the move to occur, Gottlieb would need to leave Likud, or Likud would have to decide to part ways with her. Ben Gvir's willingness to accommodate her is contingent on Netanyahu's approval, as he does not intend to secure a spot for her in Otzma Yehudit without prior consultation with the Prime Minister. Such a move is seen as potentially beneficial for both parties and the broader right-wing bloc. Netanyahu could present a more moderate Likud list, appealing to centrist voters, while Ben Gvir would gain a figure already aligned with a significant portion of his party's base.

Gottlieb herself has not ruled out joining another political framework. She stated on Monday that she would consider an offer that reflects her political standing and influence. "I laid down my life for the Prime Minister and the right-wing government," Gottlieb wrote on X, adding that she would seriously consider a concrete offer from a party that respects her electoral power and allows her to contend for a significant ministerial role. As of now, she claims to have no such offer.

Gottlieb has expressed significant criticism towards Netanyahu's inner circle and Likud campaign staff, alleging that despite her strong performance in the primaries, she was demoted to a lower spot on the party list and that attempts were made to undermine her political standing. She claims to have been excluded from the Likud campaign, with campaign insiders allegedly briefing against her. Furthermore, she stated that Netanyahu decided against appointing her as Justice Minister or Chair of the Constitution, Law and Justice Committee, a decision she acknowledges is within his authority.

These developments follow reports that Gottlieb had been in contact with an alternative political entity and had requested the 12th spot on the Likud list from Netanyahu. Likud sources, however, have indicated that her demands and ultimatum were rejected. Separately, Netanyahu responded to Gottlieb's claim of a hidden plea deal, dismissing it as a "complete lie without any basis."