Netanyahu Ally Slams MK Gottlieb's Threats to Leave Likud

A senior Likud official and close associate of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly rebuked Knesset Member Tally Gottlieb for her sharp criticism of the prime minister and her threats to leave the party. "No one can threaten Bibi Netanyahu," the official stated, asserting that Gottlieb "thought she would be in the starting five, but Likud members are not suckers. Whoever harms Netanyahu gets hurt politically himself."

The official further suggested Gottlieb should "just leave" rather than merely threaten to do so, adding, "The door is open." He also made a pointed remark about another Likud member, "Gila Gamliel sings excellently," implying Gottlieb's own performance was lacking. The official concluded by saying the party wants Gottlieb to stay, but "without threats against the Prime Minister," and that her departure "would not be a great loss."

Gottlieb had posted on social media platform X the previous day, accusing Netanyahu and his circle of attempting to "foil her politically." She claimed they had excluded her from the Likud campaign and that Netanyahu did not intend to appoint her as Justice Minister or even chair of the Constitution, Law and Justice Committee.

In her post, Gottlieb openly considered the possibility of moving to another party, stating, "If I received a realistic offer from a party that respected my electoral strength and my clear ability to serve as a minister in a highly important role, in the name of my voters I would consider it very seriously." She added, "Meanwhile, there is no such offer."

Sources revealed that before the Likud primaries, Otzma Yehudit party leader Itamar Ben-Gvir offered Gottlieb the second spot on his party's list, immediately after him. However, Gottlieb rejected the offer at the time, preferring to remain in Likud, compete in the primaries, and secure a high position on the party's slate. Gottlieb confirmed this report.