Likud MK Tali Gottlieb Blames Ministers Levin and Katz for Primary Cancellation Controversy

The ongoing dispute within the Likud party over the cancellation of primaries has intensified, with Member of Knesset Tali Gottlieb sharply criticizing ministers Yariv Levin and Israel Katz. Gottlieb accused the two ministers of cowardice and of orchestrating the controversial move to abolish the party primaries, claiming they are working on a committee mechanism to preserve their own power. She stated that Levin and Katz are reacting out of fear of recent poll results and are attempting to undermine Likud voters by shifting power to city mayors.

Gottlieb emphasized that the Likud party has both a significant history and a future, warning that canceling the primaries would cost the party seats in the Knesset. She insisted that while the prime minister will receive reserved spots on the party list, the primaries remain the foundation of Likud's democratic process. Gottlieb concluded with a firm declaration that she will not allow the prime minister to be undermined and that only primaries should decide the party's candidates.

In related developments, a former Likud MK has left the party and is establishing a new religious Zionist party, adding to the internal turmoil within Likud.