Netanyahu Silences Key Likud Figures Ahead of Elections

Prominent Likud politicians, including Dudi Amsalem, Miri Regev, and Yaakov Bardugo, have significantly reduced their public appearances and media interviews in the weeks leading up to the upcoming elections. This phenomenon, described by some as being "put on mute" or "silenced," is attributed by political analysts to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's campaign strategy.

Commentators suggest Netanyahu is intentionally sidelining these figures, whom he perceives as potentially damaging to his image and electoral prospects. "He hides them again," claims political commentator Merav Betito, adding that Netanyahu is "hiding everyone." Media personality Barak Seri believes Netanyahu views these politicians as "driving away votes" and prefers to project an image of "Ashkenazi, state-oriented individuals who exude calm."

Regev, for instance, was reportedly excluded from a publicized meeting upon her return from a Flydubai flight, despite being present at the airport. This follows a pattern from over seven years ago when Netanyahu excluded her from a "united leadership" photo. Bardugo himself stated on Channel 14, "They are silencing me, yes? I am not allowed to respond, I am not allowed to speak."

Avi Bushinsky, a former media advisor to Netanyahu, explained that the Prime Minister is currently focused solely on himself, stating, "This is not Netanyahu's thing now, now it's only about Netanyahu." He believes Netanyahu sees these politicians as "toxic" and a hindrance to his campaign, which he is personally directing as a "one-man operation."

Analysis of media exposure data shows a sharp decline in interviews and appearances for key Likud figures. For example, Miri Regev's interviews dropped from 33 to eight, while others like Israel Katz and Gila Gamliel had zero interviews. Even pro-Likud media outlets like Channel 14 and Galey Israel have seen a reduction in interviews with senior Likud members.

Analysts suggest this strategy aims to distance the party from controversial figures and issues, particularly in the wake of the October 7th failures, and to present Netanyahu as the sole strong brand. While some believe Bardugo might be deployed for specific "threat" scenarios, he is largely expected to remain off the airwaves, especially on non-aligned channels.