Netanyahu Vows Justice Ministry Will Stay With Likud

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated in closed discussions that if the coalition wins the upcoming elections and he forms the next government, the Ministry of Justice will remain under the control of the Likud party. This comes amid a brewing dispute over the sensitive portfolio, which is emerging as a key point of contention for future coalition negotiations.

Otzma Yehudit chairman Itamar Ben-Gvir has announced his intention to demand the Justice Ministry for MK Tali Gottlieb, who is ranked second on his party's list. Within the Likud party, several names are being considered for the role, including the current Justice Minister Yariv Levin, as well as Yaakov Bardugo and attorney David Peter, who were placed on the party's list by Netanyahu.

The Religious Zionism party also has expressed interest in the ministry, with the name of Constitution Committee chairman Simcha Rothman mentioned as a potential candidate. The struggle for control of the Ministry of Justice is expected to be particularly significant, given its central role in the recent judicial reform debates.

Sources within the right-wing bloc aim to advance further changes to the judicial system, including aspects like judicial appointments, the status of the government's legal advisors, and the relationship between the government and the judiciary. Netanyahu reportedly views control of the Justice Ministry as crucial for the Likud to advance these objectives. Therefore, despite anticipated demands from coalition partners, the Prime Minister has made it clear in private conversations that the portfolio should remain within his party.