Tali Gottlieb Affirms Loyalty to Likud and Confirms Plans to Run in Primaries

Likud MK Tali Gottlieb strongly denied recent reports suggesting she might leave the party, calling the headlines "false" and aimed at pressuring right-wing voters. In a statement on July 23, 2026, she emphasized her commitment to Likud and her intention to compete in the upcoming party primaries. Gottlieb also dismissed claims that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sought to sideline her through a selection committee, revealing that Netanyahu had actually reserved her the fifth spot on the party list if primaries were not held.

Gottlieb criticized the misleading media coverage, stating, "I am in Likud and not leaving anywhere," and expressed confidence in securing the trust of party members during the primaries. She reiterated her support for holding the internal elections, hoping they will take place on August 17, 2026.

The Likud convention to vote on Netanyahu's proposal for the primary election format was postponed to the following Monday due to legal challenges. Approximately 4,500 Likud Central Committee members will vote at 17 locations nationwide on the primary election framework. Netanyahu’s plan includes eight reserved slots on the party list and provisions for a selection committee to determine the list only if primaries cannot be held due to exceptional security conditions. The party clarified that any cancellation of primaries would require official Home Front Command orders prohibiting gatherings, and Netanyahu has no authority to influence these decisions.

Final results from the voting centers will be published after the conclusion of the vote. Gottlieb’s statement and the ongoing preparations highlight internal party dynamics ahead of the Likud primaries amid the broader political context in Israel.