Loud Row Erupts at Likud Court Over Primary Vote Irregularities

A heated confrontation erupted at the Likud party's internal court on Tuesday during a hearing concerning allegations of fraud and ballot stuffing in the party's recent primaries. The dispute involved Minister Gila Gamliel and Member of Knesset (MK) Etty Attia, with accusations flying between their camps.

During the proceedings, which focused on Gamliel's claims of irregularities in the southern town of Beer Yaakov, Attia reportedly told Gamliel, "We don't want you." This remark triggered a sharp retort from Gamliel's advisor, who attacked Attia personally, questioning her public recognition and suggesting her votes came from a "patron."

The verbal clash reflects the intense political tension between the two lawmakers. A recount of votes had previously pushed Attia into the 25th spot on the Likud's Knesset list, displacing Gamliel to a non-viable position. Gamliel, who views Attia as aligned with Minister Haim Katz, alleges her demotion is not a result of voter preference but of deliberate manipulation.

Adding to the controversy, Gamliel has filed a police complaint against Katz and others within the party, suspecting illegal opening of ballot boxes. Supporters of Gamliel continued their criticism outside the courtroom, questioning how Attia, whom they claim is largely unknown to the public, secured enough votes to alter the list's outcome, especially given Gamliel's support from 22,000 voters.

Conversely, Attia and party officials maintain the recount was conducted properly and that Gamliel's claims stem from an inability to accept the election results. With the deadline for submitting party lists to the Central Elections Committee approaching, the Likud court judges face a critical decision that could further deepen internal divisions within the party.