Netanyahu Frustrated with Likud MKs, Ignores Bitan in List Dispute

Journalist Michael Hauser-Tov spoke on 103fm radio about the ongoing controversy over reserved spots (sharionim) in the Likud party list. He claimed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is fed up with certain Likud Members of Knesset (MKs) and wants to personally determine the party list. Hauser-Tov said Netanyahu "does not count" former IDF Chief of Staff Ronen Bar, as well as MKs Amir Ohana and David Bitan, indicating his disregard for them in the list-making process.

Last week, it was agreed that Netanyahu would receive 10 reserved slots on the Likud list. However, MK David Bitan filed a petition against Netanyahu over this arrangement, and other MKs also protested, calling the move unfair to them. In response to the turmoil, one of Netanyahu's advisers stated that the Prime Minister has apologized for the situation.

This dispute highlights internal tensions within Likud ahead of upcoming elections, with Netanyahu asserting control over candidate selection while facing pushback from party members who feel sidelined.