Netanyahu Plans to Appoint Interior Minister Soon, Ophir Katz Leading Candidate

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informed the Supreme Court on Monday that he intends to appoint a new Interior Minister in the near future. Ophir Katz, currently serving as coalition chairman and Knesset committee head, is among the leading candidates for the position, with a final decision expected only after the upcoming primaries. The Interior Ministry has been without a minister since Shas left the coalition, forcing Netanyahu to assume some of its powers to approve various decisions.

Following a legislative deal between Netanyahu and the ultra-Orthodox parties, reports indicate that Netanyahu is considering rewarding Katz, regarded as the main architect behind the recent legislative moves. About two months ago, Shas leader Aryeh Deri requested that an Interior Minister be appointed from his party before the elections, fearing a political deadlock that could lead to additional elections and a caretaker government. Deri’s office declined to comment on the current appointment process.

Shortly after the conclusion of Operation Breaking Dawn, it was reported that Netanyahu had offered the Interior Ministry post to Defense Minister Israel Katz, but Ophir Katz remains a prominent contender. The appointment is seen as crucial for managing the ministry during the transitional period ahead of the elections.