Likud and Otzma Yehudit Trade Barbs Amid Coalition Tensions

A sharp dispute erupted between Israel's Likud party and the far-right Otzma Yehudit faction, fueled by conflicting reports about Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's intentions regarding future coalition formations. Otzma Yehudit vehemently denied a report by Yediot Ahronot claiming Netanyahu had a "calming talk" with party leader Itamar Ben-Gvir and MK Tali Gottlieb, asserting it was "complete fake news." The party stated no such conversation occurred in recent weeks and no messages were sent to reassure them about inclusion in the next government.

Instead, Otzma Yehudit accused Netanyahu's office of spreading "worrying reports" to various countries, suggesting the party would not be part of the next government. They also pointed to Likud's campaign for a "unity government" and alleged briefings from the Prime Minister's office indicating Ben-Gvir should be excluded. Otzma Yehudit further claimed Netanyahu prefers Benny Gantz over Ben-Gvir in the next government, citing Gantz's surplus agreement with Yair Golan.

The Likud party responded by calling Ben-Gvir's claims a "bluff," stating Netanyahu has repeatedly affirmed his intention to form the next government with existing national camp parties. They advised Ben-Gvir to focus on preventing a "left-wing government" led by Gantz, Yair Golan, Avigdor Lieberman, and Arab parties.

MK Tali Gottlieb, who recently moved from Likud to Otzma Yehudit, echoed the denial, calling the "calming talk" report a "lie" from Netanyahu's circle. She suggested the Prime Minister's office was alarmed by public support for Otzma Yehudit and the perception that only their party could ensure a right-wing government.