MK Tali Gottlieb Accuses Netanyahu of Pushing Her Out of Likud

Member of Knesset Tali Gottlieb has publicly stated that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is orchestrating her departure from the Likud party, rather than her choosing to leave. In an interview, Gottlieb expressed deep personal sadness over the situation, asserting, "The Prime Minister does not want me in the Likud." She claims Netanyahu is initiating a legal maneuver to release her from the party without her being officially declared a defector.

Gottlieb suggested that her perceived political stance, described as "too right-wing" by Netanyahu's advisors, is a key factor. She believes the Likud campaign is focusing on a "moderate and soft right" approach and neglecting to emphasize curbing the power of the judiciary, a stance she champions. She also alleged that Netanyahu's team has been trying to wear her down and sideline her, even employing "favorite journalists," including the Prime Minister's son.

Despite her accusations, Gottlieb indicated that a path to remaining in Likud exists if her demands are met. She stated that she would consider an offer from Itamar Ben-Gvir's Otzma Yehudit party if it were concrete and allowed her to contribute effectively. However, her primary condition for staying with Likud is to be placed at the 12th spot on the party's Knesset list, which she claims is where Likud primary voters placed her.

Senior Likud officials reportedly believe that Gottlieb's departure is inevitable given her escalating rhetoric. They suggest that if she decides to join Otzma Yehudit, Netanyahu will likely permit the move and not fight to keep her in Likud, including not seeking to declare her a defector. Gottlieb, however, downplayed reports that she is already being considered for funding as a defector, stating that her financial unit is not her primary concern.