Amir Segal Reveals Why Netanyahu Has Not Ousted Economy Minister Nir Barkat

Political commentator Amir Segal has disclosed new details about the strained relationship between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Economy Minister Nir Barkat. Segal revealed that Barkat attempted to organize a move to replace Netanyahu during the war following the October 7 attack. Despite this, Netanyahu did not remove Barkat from the government. Segal explained that at the time, Netanyahu refrained from dismissing Barkat due to coalition politics, as he did not have enough parliamentary margin to lose even a single vote.

Segal further suggested that current reasons for Netanyahu’s tolerance might include Barkat’s litigation fund, which finances lawsuits involving individuals close to Netanyahu’s office. The information about Barkat’s attempted "coup" was reportedly brought to Netanyahu’s attention by Minister Haim Katz at the end of November 2023. Following this, Netanyahu took steps to dismantle Barkat’s efforts, including offering promotions and assigning one of Barkat’s allies abroad.

Segal described Barkat’s subsequent challenges to the government on multiple fronts, including budget disputes and policy criticism, as costly, clumsy, and unsuccessful. Barkat also met with ministers, Knesset members, and media figures to promote himself as the country’s rightful leader, but according to Segal, these efforts failed to convince the public or political establishment. Segal concluded by challenging Barkat to sue for defamation if he denies the claims made in the report.