Netanyahu Threatens to Leave Likud Over Dispute on Candidate List Quotas

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has demanded a significant increase in the number of reserved spots on the Likud party list ahead of the upcoming elections. In a meeting with Likud Secretary-General and Minister Haim Katz, sharp disagreements emerged over the party's internal primary election system, with no agreement reached. Netanyahu insisted on securing 11 reserved slots within the top 40 candidates, stating, "I need to change the face of the party and bring mandates, so I demand 11 reserved spots up to number 40." Katz opposed this, calling the demand excessive and warning that the Likud Central Committee would not approve such a high number.

During the discussion, Netanyahu made a dramatic remark, saying, "If they don't want me, I can also get up and leave with my own framework." Although reportedly said with a smile, the comment highlighted the deep divisions and power struggles within Likud as the party prepares for the next election. The Likud Constitution Committee is expected to formally approve postponing the primaries to early August, as the original date of July 28 cannot be met due to the deadlock.

Netanyahu is not expected to attend the Constitution Committee meeting, but a follow-up session has been scheduled to try to reach a compromise on the primary election method and the reserved spots issue. The dispute underscores the internal tensions in Likud as Netanyahu seeks to reshape the party's candidate list to strengthen his electoral prospects.