Likud Reserves Seats for Ministers Amid Internal Backlash Ahead of Knesset Elections

The Likud party has sparked controversy by reserving Knesset list spots for ministers Israel Katz, Gideon Sa'ar, and Haim Katz ahead of the upcoming elections. This decision increases the number of reserved slots from eight to ten, with four guaranteed placements in the top ten positions. The move means about half of the party’s current politicians will likely miss out on Knesset seats, intensifying competition among roughly 35 incumbents vying for approximately 15 spots.

The Likud’s internal court ruled last week to reserve a spot for Defense Minister Israel Katz, citing the need for him to focus on security rather than politics. The party also reserved places for Sa'ar, as part of a union agreement with his New Hope party, and for Haim Katz due to his role as party center chairman. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will hold the first spot on the list and will have a total of ten reserved slots, including those for the ministers and regional representatives.

The decision has drawn sharp criticism from within and outside Likud. Knesset member Tali Gottlieb called it a "disgraceful step mocking Likud voters," and former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot accused senior Likud figures of selling out their voters for political survival. Other party members expressed support for Netanyahu’s strategy, emphasizing the need for a strong team to secure victory and govern effectively.

Opposition voices also condemned the move. Dan Iluz, who defected from Likud to Yisrael Beiteinu, criticized Haim Katz for blocking reforms and contributing to high living costs, accusing Netanyahu of enabling this by reserving Katz’s seat. The controversy highlights internal tensions as Likud prepares for a challenging election with limited Knesset slots available.

The Likud’s final list placement for the ministers remains unclear, but at least one is expected in the top five. The party’s second and third tiers will include a mix of reserved candidates and those winning primaries, with the overall structure designed to maximize Netanyahu’s control over the list and election outcomes.