Netanyahu's Controversial Knesset List Picks Spark Likud Uprising

With just 48 hours remaining before candidate lists must be finalized, a dramatic decision by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding reserved spots on the Likud party's Knesset list has ignited significant internal tension. Netanyahu has reportedly chosen to fill his remaining five reserved "armored" slots with external candidates rather than promoting existing Likud members or prominent figures who were pushed to lower, less viable positions in the party's primaries.

This move has generated considerable anger among party activists and representatives. In response, a movement is reportedly forming within the Likud secretariat to demand a secret ballot vote on Netanyahu's proposed candidates. Organizers believe that under a secret ballot, Netanyahu's choices may not secure the necessary approval.

A senior Likud activist criticized the plan to bring in outside candidates, challenging Netanyahu to present polling data showing these "stars" bring in more votes than established party figures like Ze'ev Elkin, Amit Halevi, or Avichai Boaron.

The Likud secretariat is scheduled to convene on Monday at 5:00 PM to approve Netanyahu's reserved list placements. If the demand for a secret ballot is finalized and accepted before Monday's meeting, the approval process for these reserved spots could escalate into a direct confrontation and a significant test of Netanyahu's internal party support.