Netanyahu Ally Predicts Half of Likud Ministers Will Lose Knesset Seats

A close associate of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sharply criticized Likud party members and ministers on Sunday, claiming that half of them will not return to the Knesset after the upcoming elections. The source stated that out of 45 current members, including the Norwegian Law replacements, only 18 will remain, with an additional eight reserved spots. Citing recent polls projecting Likud will secure 25 seats, the associate questioned where the rest would be.

The insider explained that many members feared openly expressing their views and thus will not secure a place on the next party list, despite having control over the Knesset Arrangements Committee. The source blamed internal turmoil within Likud, specifically pointing to Minister Haim Katz and MK David Bitan, for causing serious disruptions that will cost many their seats. The associate predicted Netanyahu will bring fresh faces to the list as a result.

The criticism highlighted disputes over top list placements, which led to several current MKs and ministers potentially watching the Knesset proceedings only via Channel 99, the parliamentary broadcast channel. This pointed to a significant reshuffle within Likud ahead of the elections, reflecting internal party tensions and strategic repositioning.