Netanyahu Explains Reserved Knesset Seats for Haim Katz and Others Amid Likud Primaries Dispute

The Likud party has responded to petitions challenging the reserved Knesset slots, clarifying Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's rationale for reserving seats for Defense Minister Israel Katz, former Likud chairman Gideon Sa'ar, and Likud Central Committee chairman Haim Katz ahead of the upcoming primaries. According to the party, Israel Katz's reserved seat aims to allow him to focus fully on his national security duties without the distraction of internal party elections. This decision was based on a confidential request submitted by Netanyahu to the party's internal court, which previously ruled that there are "weighty reasons" justifying such protection.

Regarding Gideon Sa'ar, Likud stated that his placement is part of a political agreement between Likud and the State National Right party, not a typical reserved slot. The party's court confirmed this joint list arrangement as a legitimate political move that does not warrant intervention. For Haim Katz, the justification for his reserved spot is his extensive public and party experience, as well as his role as chairman of the Likud Central Committee.

However, Katz's reserved seat is currently on hold following a temporary injunction issued by the party's court in response to a petition alleging conflicts of interest, since Katz was involved in approving the reserved slots mechanism. The court found the claims "worthy of examination" and is awaiting responses from Katz and the party's legal advisor. This development comes just days before the Likud primaries and intensifies the internal struggle over the party's candidate list. While the reserved seats for Sa'ar and Israel Katz have been confirmed, Katz's status remains unresolved pending the court's final decision. Meanwhile, criticism within Likud is growing from candidates who argue that the numerous reserved slots limit the number of realistic positions available through the primaries.