Netanyahu Sparks Anger Within Likud Over Knesset List Appointments

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent appointments to the Likud party's Knesset list have ignited internal dissent, with senior ministers and lawmakers expressing anger over choices perceived as not electorally beneficial. The most significant controversy surrounds the placement of Yaakov Bardugo, a close associate of Netanyahu, at the 11th spot on the list, with speculation he is being positioned for a ministerial role, possibly Justice or Communications.

Sources within Likud indicate that many Knesset members are resentful of Bardugo due to past conflicts and his sharp criticism of them during the previous term. There is an expectation among some that if Bardugo is appointed Justice Minister, he will prove ineffective, exposing perceived "bluffs." Bardugo is not expected to be a prominent figure in the Likud campaign.

The decision to include Bardugo faced strong opposition within Netanyahu's office, with some professional staff deeming it a serious error. The debate escalated to high tensions before Netanyahu intervened to finalize the announcement. The Prime Minister's family reportedly advocated for loyalists closely aligned with Netanyahu, rather than necessarily the broader Likud party, citing the anticipated close election results.

Separately, Avi Bluwstein, a Netanyahu confidant and Likud field director, was initially pushed down the list to accommodate Amir Avivi, founder of the "HaBitachonim" movement. Following a heated exchange, Netanyahu agreed that Avivi would relinquish his spot to Bluwstein, with a promise of a ministerial position if Likud forms the next government.

Netanyahu is reportedly facing a wave of discontent from within his party, with many members remaining silent for now, awaiting the election outcome. "Netanyahu is starting the next term with many resentful Knesset members," one minister stated, adding that if Netanyahu's moves lead to victory, "everything is tolerable. If not, he will have to deal with the consequences."

Further unrest is occurring regarding Minister Haim Katz, whose own list placement and subsequent political maneuvers have drawn sharp criticism from senior ministers, requiring Netanyahu's intervention to calm tensions.