MK Tali Gottlieb to Run on Otzma Yehudit List
Member of Knesset Tali Gottlieb will move from the Likud party to run on the Otzma Yehudit (Jewish Power) slate in the upcoming Knesset elections. The agreement stipulates that Gottlieb will not be declared a "defector," will retain her Knesset seat, and will continue to adhere to Likud's factional discipline until the 26th Knesset. Her funding unit will also remain with Likud.
Gottlieb is expected to be placed in the top five on the Otzma Yehudit list, likely in fourth place. This move will free up a spot for another woman within the Likud party, potentially for Gila Gamliel. Gottlieb's decision reportedly stems from concerns about facing an indictment without parliamentary immunity if she is not re-elected, as her current position on the Likud list is not guaranteed to secure her a seat.
Otzma Yehudit leader Itamar Ben-Gvir anticipates Gottlieb could add approximately two seats to his party's tally. He has also promised her a ministerial position if they join the government. Ben-Gvir welcomed Gottlieb, stating she is joining a "family of fighters" and praising her as a "true warrior" against injustice, the "deep state," and those who pursued former Prime Minister Netanyahu.
Gottlieb has expressed frustration with Likud leadership, feeling "stabbed in the back" after allegedly revealing classified information to aid the government, only to face potential legal repercussions. The indictment against her, related to revealing the identity of a Shin Bet agent, was delayed due to the Defense Minister's reluctance to sign a required immunity certificate, a step he eventually took at the Shin Bet chief's request.
Internal polls suggest Gottlieb's move boosts Otzma Yehudit's support by one seat. The Likud party confirmed the agreement, wishing Gottlieb success while emphasizing her continued obligation to Likud's factional discipline. The move also raises questions about Gila Gamliel's political future within Likud, as she is currently contesting primary election results and seeking a Knesset seat.
The same event, reported separately by each outlet. Open a few to compare what different newsrooms emphasize — and what they leave out.
Not the same event — other stories that share this one’s people, places, or theme: background, reactions, and follow-ups.
