Netanyahu Hesitates to Approve Hadar Mukhtar for Likud Primaries Amid Internal Debate

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has yet to sign off on Hadar Mukhtar's candidacy for the upcoming Likud primaries, despite the deadline for approving shortened party membership requirements expiring today. Mukhtar, who announced her intention to run for the new women's slot in the party, has not received the necessary authorization from Netanyahu to participate in the primaries.

In recent days, a significant dispute has emerged among Netanyahu's close aides regarding whether to approve Mukhtar's request to shorten the required party membership period, which she has not yet fulfilled according to Likud's constitution. Some argue that Mukhtar's candidacy would strengthen the Likud list due to her growing popularity on social media and among young voters. Others contend that her confrontational videos with left-wing activists could harm the party's image ahead of the elections.

Additional voices within Netanyahu's office believe that the decision should ultimately rest with the party members rather than the prime minister. They emphasize that the shortened membership approval is not a guaranteed spot but merely permission to run, with the final choice lying with Likud voters.

Today is also the last day for Knesset members to decide whether to run in regional districts or on the national list, following a narrowly approved party conference decision. However, this decision has been postponed pending the appointment of a new judge to replace Michael Kleiner, who is currently unable to participate due to unrelated developments.

The internal debate over Mukhtar's candidacy highlights the tensions within Likud as it prepares for the 2026 elections, balancing between appealing to younger voters and maintaining a controlled party image.