Netanyahu Blocks Attempted Likud Coup, Reserves Spot for Oren Dobronski Ahead of Primaries

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has taken decisive steps to thwart a failed coup attempt within the Likud party following the turmoil after October 7, 2023. Netanyahu surprised many by reserving a spot on the Likud list for Oren Dobronski, a successful high-tech entrepreneur, promising him a ministerial position. This move is widely seen within Netanyahu's circle as a strategic retaliation against former Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat, who is suspected of leading a rebellion against Netanyahu after the October events.

The attempted coup involved a plan by Nir Barkat and former Knesset Speaker Yuli Edelstein to replace Netanyahu through a constructive vote of no confidence in the Knesset, aiming to avoid early elections. However, the effort was undermined by Likud member and Minister Haim Katz, who opposed the plan and helped Netanyahu maintain control over the party list. Katz was rewarded with a reserved spot on the list for his loyalty and role in blocking the coup.

Following the failed attempt, Netanyahu has been consolidating power by strengthening allies such as Eli Cohen, Ofir Katz, and Amichai Shikli to push Barkat down the party list. Sources close to Netanyahu claim that the former mayor was the main instigator of the rebellion, which nearly succeeded. Netanyahu’s camp views these moves as part of a broader effort to purge dissenters and secure his leadership ahead of the upcoming Likud primaries.

Official statements from Likud deny any political vendetta, emphasizing Dobronski’s appointment as a merit-based choice due to his entrepreneurial success. Barkat’s office also welcomed Dobronski’s inclusion, framing it as a boost to the party’s economic expertise. The internal party struggle highlights ongoing tensions within Likud as Netanyahu prepares for the next election cycle.