Yossi Ahimeir Warns Likud Faces Crucial Challenge in Candidate List Ahead of Elections
Yossi Ahimeir argues that Likud's main challenge before the upcoming elections is not opposition pressure or international criticism, but assembling a high-quality candidate list that maintains public trust and ensures continued right-wing governance. He highlights the multiple pressures on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, including ongoing legal battles, hostile media, and unpredictable international allies like former U.S. President Donald Trump, whose shifting stance on Iran complicates Israel's diplomatic landscape.
Ahimeir notes that opposition parties exploit these difficulties to mock Netanyahu and isolate Israel internationally. However, he stresses that internal party dynamics, particularly disputes over candidate selection methods such as primaries and reserved slots, remain a critical issue. The party's vitality has historically stemmed from its internal debates and central role in Israeli politics, but this time, the stakes are higher.
Many Likud activists fear that failure to present a strong, representative, and respectful candidate slate could lead to a left-wing or far-left government, threatening settlements in the West Bank, counterterrorism efforts, and democratic balances. Ahimeir urges party members to avoid re-electing divisive or extreme incumbents who alienate voters and disrespect soldiers and bereaved families.
He also cautions Netanyahu to carefully allocate reserved spots on the list to experienced and worthy candidates rather than media personalities, recalling past mistakes with unsuccessful nominees. Despite varying polls, Likud retains a large loyal base, but this alone is insufficient to secure victory. Only a well-chosen candidate list can prevent a government lacking backbone from taking power amid external and internal pressures.
Ahimeir concludes that the party must overcome internal conflicts swiftly and present a united front with a credible team to safeguard Israel’s future and maintain right-wing leadership.
