Two Likud MKs Consider Quitting Primaries Over Netanyahu’s Reserved Slots for Ministers

Two members of the Likud party are contemplating withdrawing from the upcoming primary elections in protest against the reserved slots granted by party leader Benjamin Netanyahu to ministers Israel Katz, Haim Katz, and Gideon Sa'ar. Despite the controversy, Defense Minister Israel Katz is expected to retain his reserved position on the list. The party is reportedly trying to add another reserved candidate before the primaries scheduled for Monday, though this individual is not expected to be journalist Nettaeli Shem Tov but someone not previously mentioned.

Prime Minister Netanyahu’s recent visit to the Malha Mall was described by Likud sources as a trial phase rather than the official start of the campaign, which is expected to begin only after the primaries. Netanyahu’s recent actions are seen as fulfilling obligations, similar to previous instances when he reserved slots for Amichai Shikli and Idit Silman.

Deputy Minister Almog Cohen, who helped stabilize the government after Itamar Ben-Gvir’s departure, received a shortened campaign slot from Netanyahu. Likewise, Gideon Sa'ar and Michel Buskila, who ended their alliance with Benny Gantz and helped maintain the government, were similarly rewarded. Haim Katz, chairman of the Likud center, approved Netanyahu’s request for eight reserved slots and secured one for himself. Israel Katz, as chairman of the party secretariat, also approved the reserved slots and is likely to keep his position as a reward for his role.

The reserved slots have sparked anger within the party, with some Likud MKs refusing to run in district primaries. A petition challenging the reserved slots was rejected, intensifying internal tensions over Netanyahu’s handling of the candidate list.