District Court Orders Likud Conference to Convene Thursday for Primary Rules Vote

The Tel Aviv District Court has ruled that the Likud party conference must convene on Thursday, July 16, to vote on the party's primary election regulations. This decision follows weeks of internal disputes within the party. During the vote, candidate Dor Harlap will urge delegates to support Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's proposal regarding reserved spots on the party list but to oppose a competing proposal from Knesset member Haim Katz. The controversy began in May when it was revealed that Netanyahu requested 10 reserved slots in the top 30 positions on the Likud list, which are considered highly likely to secure seats in the upcoming general elections. Netanyahu justified the request by stating that the public is frustrated with some party veterans and demands renewal, but also emphasized the need for attractive and well-known candidates. The court ruling came after Harlap's petition and with the agreement of the party's legal advisor, Ilan Bombach. The vote will determine the final rules for the Likud primaries, including whether Knesset members and ministers can run in specific districts and slots.