Netanyahu Delays Likud Primaries Amid List Negotiations and Demands for Reserved Seats

The Israeli coalition has confirmed that the upcoming elections will proceed as scheduled on October 27, following a legal ruling that the Knesset must be dissolved by July 17. This timeline is being used by the coalition to push through agreements between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and ultra-Orthodox parties until the last moment. Meanwhile, Netanyahu continues to press for reserved slots on the Likud party list, with reports indicating he may secure between seven and nine guaranteed positions despite holding primaries.

On Sunday evening, Netanyahu postponed a crucial Likud Constitution Committee discussion on the primaries, officially citing scheduling conflicts. However, the delay stems from unresolved disagreements with Minister Haim Katz and Knesset member David Bitan, as well as concerns that some MKs might boycott key votes later this week. Katz has introduced a new demand to secure spots for two of his close associates, MKs Eti Atiya and Keti Shitrit.

Senior Likud officials stated that Bitan, previously the only public opponent of canceling the primaries, has now reached an understanding with Netanyahu. Last month, Netanyahu proposed canceling the primaries once and transferring the candidate selection power to the party conference, fearing that primaries would elevate undesired candidates. This proposal caused discontent among party members and local leaders.

Likud insiders expect a compromise plan to emerge, allowing Netanyahu to increase his reserved slots while still holding primaries. Last week, Netanyahu personally met with Katz, the Likud Central Committee chairman, at his home to secure approval for the number of reserved seats, receiving a green light. According to reports on Channel 13, Netanyahu warned senior Likud members that "this list will not bring governance," and some party leaders accuse him of delaying the process to prevent full primaries from taking place.