Likud Lawmaker Denies Netanyahu Plans to Reserve Knesset Seat for Former Mossad Chief Yossi Cohen

Amid widespread rumors about the Likud party's candidate list for the upcoming Knesset elections, Likud MK Tali Gottlieb publicly denied reports that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu intends to reserve a spot for former Mossad chief Yossi Cohen. Gottlieb labeled these claims as "false spins" and clarified that Netanyahu has no plans to include Cohen in the party list.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Gottlieb wrote, "Enough with the false spins. The Prime Minister is not reserving a spot for Yossi Cohen." She also referenced allegations raised during Netanyahu's ongoing trial, mentioning a memorandum submitted as evidence that suggested a strange connection between Cohen and a woman reportedly not supportive of Netanyahu. Gottlieb commented, "Tell me who your friend is, and I'll tell you who you are."

Additionally, Gottlieb dismissed speculation about reserving a seat for former IDF Chief of Staff and former Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi, stating, "Gabi Ashkenazi will not be reserved a spot in Likud because the Prime Minister will not bring into Likud someone who undermined him." She expressed satisfaction in clarifying these points amid the swirling rumors.

The denials come as part of ongoing discussions about the Likud party's strategy and candidate lineup ahead of the next elections, with Netanyahu's choices closely watched by political observers. Both Cohen and Ashkenazi have been subjects of speculation regarding their potential political roles, but Gottlieb's statements firmly reject their inclusion in the Likud list at this time.