Netanyahu Reserves Three Ministerial Slots in Likud List, Sparking Internal Party Outrage

In a late-night announcement just after 1:00 AM, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu decided to reserve three ministerial slots on the Likud party's Knesset list for ministers Israel Katz, Haim Katz, and Gideon Sa'ar. This move has provoked significant anger among senior party members, with MK Tali Gottlieb sharply criticizing the decision on her X account, calling the reservation of Defense Minister Israel Katz's slot a "disgraceful step mocking Likud voters." Gottlieb emphasized that Israel Katz, who feared the primary results, was given a reserved spot despite the party's need to fight the judicial system targeting the right-wing government.

The party statement explained that Gideon Sa'ar's reserved slot was part of a union agreement with the "Statehood Right" party, while Haim Katz's reservation was due to his role as party center chairman. The surprising reservation for Israel Katz was justified by the party as enabling him to focus on security matters rather than politics at this time, noting he was expected to be near the top of the list anyway.

Additionally, Likud announced the first reserved slot for businessman and high-tech entrepreneur Oren Dovronsky, describing him as a successful businessman and right-wing figure who will lead artificial intelligence initiatives in various sectors after the elections. Notably, two months ago, Dovronsky criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump on X, calling him "morally corrupt."

Last month, the Likud conference approved primary regulations granting Netanyahu eight reserved slots on the Knesset list, mostly in realistic positions, despite opposition from one-third of the party's central committee members. These reserved slots are at positions 5, 9, 11, 15, 18, 23, 26, and 29 on the list.

The controversy highlights internal tensions within Likud as Netanyahu consolidates control over the party list ahead of the upcoming elections.