Netanyahu Reserves Knesset Spot for Defense Minister Katz Amidst Likud Primary Turmoil

In the lead-up to the Likud party primaries scheduled for next Monday, intense internal tensions have surfaced as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has secretly arranged to reserve a Knesset seat for Defense Minister Israel Katz. This decision, initiated about two weeks ago and already underway through the Likud party court, bypasses the usual primary election process to allow Katz to focus on his security duties amid an unspecified critical security situation.

Despite knowing about the reserved spot, Katz continued to campaign actively, attending private events, meeting with party activists and media, and releasing viral campaign videos. This behavior raised questions within the party, especially since the official request to the Likud court cited Katz’s full engagement with security matters as justification for the exemption.

Katz has recently been embroiled in controversies, including leaving a cabinet meeting to attend the wedding of a prominent Likud official’s son, public disputes with Knesset member Tali Gottlieb, and contentious remarks about the end of a military commander’s term. Critics within Likud have sharply condemned Katz, blaming him for embarrassing incidents and questioning his suitability to compete in the primaries, citing poor polling results.

Sources close to Katz insist he did not initiate the reserved seat request, attributing it to Netanyahu’s strategic decision. Katz reportedly feared being left out if the reservation was not approved, continuing to campaign until the official announcement was made. Following the confirmation, Katz halted his primary-related political activities and now aims to secure a top-five position on the Likud list.

The episode highlights ongoing factional struggles within Likud as Netanyahu maneuvers to shape the party list ahead of the elections, balancing political loyalty and security considerations.