Likud Conference Votes on Key Proposals Shaping Next Knesset List

The newly elected Likud party conference is holding a crucial vote today that could significantly influence the composition of the party's candidate list for the 26th Knesset. Between 12:00 and 20:00, members will vote at 18 polling stations across Israel on two main proposals. The first, backed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, concerns the reserved slots (shiriunim) framework for the Likud list. Approval would enable Netanyahu to implement his plan ahead of the party primaries, while rejection would represent a political setback for him.

The second proposal, promoted by Minister Haim Katz and unrelated to Netanyahu, would allow ministers, deputy ministers, and Knesset members to run in regional Likud districts. This change could affect how several lawmakers compete in the upcoming primaries. Party officials emphasize these are the only two decisions on the agenda, and failure of either to secure a majority would remove it from consideration without alternative measures in this process.

The vote is taking place in 18 locations nationwide, including Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, Beersheba, and Ariel. Senior Likud figures regard the outcome as highly significant, as it will set the rules for the party primaries and shape internal power dynamics within Likud in the coming months.