Netanyahu Struggles to Finalize Likud Party List Ahead of Deadline

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing difficulties in completing the Likud party's candidate list for the upcoming Knesset elections, with the deadline for submissions rapidly approaching. According to a report by i24NEWS, the party is struggling to fill the five reserved spots allocated to Netanyahu. A party source described the situation as dire, stating that "two reserved spots have been lost," indicating that Netanyahu may not utilize all the reserved positions available to him.

Instead of filling all five reserved slots, Netanyahu is reportedly considering promoting candidates who were elected through the party's primaries. This strategic move could significantly impact the final ranking of candidates on the Likud list, potentially securing more realistic electoral positions for some individuals.

Simultaneously, the Likud party is exploring the possibility of reserving spots for figures who have previously departed from other political parties. Among the potential candidates being considered are Dedi Shamchi and Oren Smadja. These deliberations are intensifying as the window for parties to submit their candidate lists closes in less than two days.