Netanyahu Secures Key Primaries Victory as Bitan Faces Political Setback in Likud

In the recent Likud party primaries, Benjamin Netanyahu achieved a significant majority in the first two proposals across most polling stations nationwide, solidifying his influence over the party's candidate list for the 2026 elections. However, the third proposal, which primarily favored Likud member Haim Katz, passed by a narrow margin before being overturned by the party's disciplinary court. This ruling invalidated the most critical clause benefiting Katz, forcing candidates Eti Attia and Keti Shitrit to compete in the crowded national list alongside incumbent Knesset members and ministers.

David Bitan, known as the "bulldozer of Likud," strongly opposed Katz's maneuvering, standing firm in his stronghold of Rishon Lezion but ultimately unable to prevent Netanyahu from securing his desired outcomes regarding reserved slots and primary regulations. The internal conflict exposed deep divisions within the party, with Netanyahu's strategic moves prevailing despite Bitan's resistance.

The disciplinary court's decision effectively ended the controversial arrangement, reshaping the competition dynamics within Likud ahead of the upcoming elections. This development highlights ongoing power struggles and factional disputes as the party prepares for the 2026 Knesset race.