Likud Lawmaker Bittan Agrees to Narrow Primaries Dispute with Netanyahu

Senior members of the Likud party report that Knesset member David Bittan, previously the only public opponent within the party against canceling the primaries, has reached an understanding with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the issue. The Likud Constitution Committee is scheduled to convene on Sunday to approve the internal election framework. Until now, Bittan maintained an independent stance opposing the planned changes to the party's election system but has aligned with the leadership following agreements with Netanyahu. However, Bittan has not yet officially responded to these claims.

This week, Channel 13 reported that Netanyahu continues to pressure Likud officials to secure a large number of reserved spots on the party list ahead of the elections. Party insiders suggest Netanyahu is delaying the process to leave insufficient time for full primaries. There is concern within Likud that the primaries, set for August 4, may be postponed due to technical reasons.

Earlier today, Bittan requested the Likud court to allow him to submit his own primaries regulations for party conference voting, fearing Netanyahu and Minister Haim Katz have arranged deals for numerous reserved slots. Last month, Netanyahu proposed a one-time cancellation of the primaries, transferring the power to select the list to the party conference, fearing primaries might elect undesired candidates. This proposal caused discontent among list members and local leaders.

Likud insiders expect a compromise plan to emerge, increasing Netanyahu's reserved slots while still holding primaries. Two days ago, Netanyahu met with Katz, chairman of the Likud center, to persuade him to approve the number of reserved slots, receiving his consent. Channel 13 first reported Netanyahu's message to Likud leaders that "this list will not bring governance." A senior Likud official responded that Netanyahu's point is the need to "inject fresh blood and renew the ranks with new and excellent people."