Netanyahu Accused of Prioritizing Loyalty Over Moderation in Likud List

Recent analyses suggest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has abandoned seeking legitimacy from the liberal public in Israel, instead prioritizing loyalty and subservience within his Likud party. This is evidenced by the composition of the Likud's candidate list for the upcoming elections, which critics argue is filled with individuals known for extreme rhetoric and unwavering support for Netanyahu, rather than moderates or those with broader public appeal.

Despite initial hopes that Netanyahu might be seeking to moderate the Likud list by including figures like Gabi Ashkenazi, Yossi Cohen, or Yuval Steinitz, their refusals and the subsequent choices indicate a different strategy. Instead of less controversial figures, Netanyahu has reportedly selected individuals who echo extreme viewpoints, such as Itzik Bonzel, who advocates for prosecuting former IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi and former Shin Bet head Ronen Bar, and Almog Cohen, a proponent of the "betrayal theory." The inclusion of lawyer David Peter, who gained prominence defending the government against legal challenges, and Yaakov Bardugo, a staunch media defender of Netanyahu, further supports this assessment.

Commentators argue that Netanyahu is not merely seeking loyalists but "worshippers," aiming to cultivate a base of support that extends beyond parliament into television studios and social media. This strategy, they contend, is exemplified by Sarah Netanyahu's recent media appearances, which focused on her personal suffering rather than national tragedies. The article posits that Netanyahu's avoidance of mainstream media interviews in favor of outlets like Channel 14 and 15 stems from an inability to tolerate any criticism, let alone dissent.

The piece concludes that Netanyahu and his wife perceive themselves as permanent rulers, requiring a "congregation of worshippers" to maintain their position and perceived entitlements. This alleged cult of personality prevents Netanyahu from selecting individuals who prioritize the state over him, even if he were inclined to do so, solidifying a strategy of rewarding sycophancy over statesmanship.