Hadar Mukhtar Denies Joining Otzma Yehudit, Affirms Loyalty to Likud

Hadar Mukhtar addressed recent reports about her potential move to Otzma Yehudit, the party led by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, during a broadcast on Channel 14's morning edition. She clarified that despite political discussions involving many parties, she intends to remain with Likud. Mukhtar emphasized her commitment to the party and her desire to compete in the upcoming primaries, stating, "Today is the last day for shortening the membership period, and after a year of traveling the country, fighting on the streets, and working in the field, I only ask for the right to run like everyone else."

The article also revealed that Likud's leadership postponed the deadline for Prime Minister Netanyahu's decision on shortening the membership period (pazam), which would allow non-Likud members to qualify for the primaries. This deadline, which had already been extended multiple times, was supposed to end yesterday but was delayed further due to ongoing legal challenges within the party and appeals to the district court.

Within Netanyahu's circle, there is disagreement about whether Mukhtar should receive the shortened membership period. Some officials argue she does not fit the image Likud wants to present in the upcoming elections, while others believe her significant youth following on social media could mobilize many voters. Mukhtar's public stance confirms her intention to stay in Likud and participate in the primaries under the party's rules.