Netanyahu Clashes with MK David Bitan Over Likud List Renewal in Closed Committee Meeting

A closed-door meeting of the Likud Constitution Committee revealed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s arguments for refreshing the party’s Knesset list, a sharp confrontation with MK David Bitan, and comments on security threats. The meeting took place shortly after the committee approved Netanyahu’s proposed framework for reserved spots on the list.

Netanyahu opened by emphasizing the need to update the Likud list to avoid appearing outdated to voters. He recounted a conversation with a Likud supporter in the Galilee who urged him to "refresh the list," acknowledging the importance of winning elections. During the discussion, Bitan challenged Netanyahu’s remarks, prompting a heated exchange. Netanyahu retorted, "David, go get elected, be prime minister, lead the party, see how many mandates you bring," asserting his responsibility to secure victory. Bitan responded sharply, accusing the leadership of defamation and stormed out of the room in anger.

Towards the meeting’s end, Netanyahu addressed security concerns, warning that if Likud had not been in power after the October 7 attacks, the consequences would have been dire. He highlighted the ongoing Iranian threat and the rise of other hostile forces, stressing the existential stakes for Israel. MK Amit Halevi also spoke, supporting the principle of holding primaries within Likud to allow party members to choose their representatives, despite disagreements over the extent of reserved slots.

The session exposed internal tensions within Likud as Netanyahu pushes for strategic changes ahead of elections, balancing party unity with electoral competitiveness amid regional security challenges.