Netanyahu Remains Likud's Strongest Force Amidst Election Maneuvering

Despite recurring predictions of his political decline, Benjamin Netanyahu continues to exert significant influence over the Likud party as it finalizes its Knesset list ahead of the upcoming elections. While internal primaries have concluded, with Eli Cohen, Amir Ohana, and Yariv Levin securing top spots, Netanyahu retains the power to appoint eight reserved candidates, a move that allows him to shape the party's final slate beyond the primary results. This strategic use of reserved slots is seen as crucial for Netanyahu's broader campaign strategy, aiming to attract new voter demographics and strengthen the party in weaker regions, rather than merely rewarding loyalists.

The article highlights Netanyahu's enduring political acumen, characterized by his ability to read the political landscape, anticipate threats, and manage multiple strategic fronts simultaneously, including the Likud party, the right-wing bloc, potential coalition partners, and external rivals. His political longevity is attributed to a rare combination of charisma, a loyal voter base, and a remarkable capacity for political maneuvering that has allowed him to overcome numerous challenges throughout his career.

Netanyahu's deep integration with the Likud brand means that his personal political strength is intrinsically linked to the party's identity. As the election approaches, his focus shifts from internal party battles to the general election campaign, where the goal is to persuade a wider electorate of his party's viability as an alternative government. The finalization of the Knesset list, including last-minute reserved appointments, is viewed as a critical component of his campaign arsenal, designed to maximize electoral appeal and potentially secure crucial mandates.

The author notes that Netanyahu's rivals have repeatedly misjudged his resilience, often prematurely declaring the end of his political era. While acknowledging that no leader is immune to defeat and that the upcoming election is far from decided, the article suggests that Netanyahu's continued central role in shaping the Likud's list indicates he is still planning for the future, rather than facing an imminent political end.