Netanyahu Reserves Knesset Slot for Oren Dvornsky Amid Mixed Reactions in Likud

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the first reserved slot on the Likud party list for businessman Oren Dvornsky, sparking mixed reactions within the party. Dvornsky, known from the TV show "The Sharks" and son of Israel Beytenu's committee head Alon Dvornsky, has been a controversial figure due to his past social media posts criticizing former U.S. President Donald Trump and opposing ceasefires with Iran. Some senior Likud ministers praised the move as aligning with Netanyahu's strategy to present a balanced list of economic and practical figures to regain voters, while some Knesset members viewed it as an unnecessary addition unlikely to integrate well with the party's grassroots during intense internal competition for Knesset seats.

Behind the scenes, Netanyahu reportedly worked hard to bring Dvornsky into Likud, seeing him as a counterbalance to the party's more hawkish members and a figure who could help reshape Likud's public image. Netanyahu also sought to recruit businessman Dov Frances, another "Sharks" personality, but that effort did not materialize. Supporters compare Dvornsky to former Jerusalem mayor Nir Barkat, emphasizing his business acumen and market knowledge as valuable assets for the party.

However, critics within Likud argue that reserved slots have historically failed to mobilize voters and that newcomers like Dvornsky lack understanding of Likud's internal politics and grassroots base, making their inclusion potentially detrimental. Dvornsky's critical posts on social media, including harsh remarks about Trump’s handling of the Iran nuclear deal and opposition to ceasefires with Iran and Hamas, have added to the controversy surrounding his nomination.

In June 2025, Dvornsky expressed outrage over a ceasefire with Iran, comparing it to allowing Hitler to remain in power, and in 2024 he called for total victory over Hamas in Gaza, even at the cost of hostages. His outspoken views have raised questions about his fit within Likud's current political climate.

The internal pressure in Likud has intensified following a Tel Aviv District Court ruling upholding the party's decision to bar sitting Knesset members and ministers from running in regional slots, escalating the competition for limited seats. This development suggests that many incumbent Likud MKs may lose their positions in the next Knesset, further heightening tensions within the party.