MK Tali Gottlieb Accuses Netanyahu's Ex-Advisor of Orchestrating Attacks

Tensions surrounding the political future of Knesset Member Tali Gottlieb have escalated, with a public dispute involving the Netanyahu family and former Prime Minister's advisor, Yonatan Urich. Gottlieb sharply criticized Yair Netanyahu, the Prime Minister's son, for his recent remarks against her, alleging that Urich is behind the attack. She claims this is part of a broader pattern by Urich to create conflict and division among those close to the Prime Minister.

"Yair Netanyahu's rudeness and rampage against me are on behalf of Yonatan Urich," Gottlieb stated. She pointed to recently revealed correspondence between Urich and Eli Feldstein as evidence that Urich "intentionally creates conflicts and division between various figures close to the Prime Minister." Gottlieb further alleged that Urich was involved in creating tensions between former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, former IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi, and the Prime Minister.

Yair Netanyahu responded directly to Gottlieb, questioning her accusations against Urich and defending his own statements as factual. He listed several criticisms of Gottlieb, including her alleged failure to pass a law against the "deep state," causing "chaos" in the Judicial Selection Committee, siding with Itamar Ben-Gvir against Benjamin Netanyahu on the merger with Bezalel Smotrich, and expressing openness to other parties. Netanyahu also accused Gottlieb of spreading false information about the Prime Minister's plea deal, claiming her statement was recorded and leaked to the media.

The public confrontation occurs amid growing uncertainty about Gottlieb's position within the Likud party. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly expected to give Gottlieb his "blessing" to leave the party. Meanwhile, Gottlieb has held discussions with Otzma Yehudit chairman Itamar Ben-Gvir, who has offered her a high spot, likely fourth, on his party's list. Reports suggest Gottlieb's request for the 12th spot on the Likud list was denied, and after internal placements, she is projected to be in 20th position, increasing her incentive to consider Ben-Gvir's offer.