Netanyahu Allies Fear Disqualification as Court Halts Haim Katz’s Party List Slot

A legal battle over Haim Katz’s secured spot on the Likud party list intensified after a court issued an interim injunction suspending his reserved placement. The issue sparked an unusually tense atmosphere among Benjamin Netanyahu’s close circle, who feared the move could be invalidated.

The heated discussion took place during a hearing where Katz participated remotely via Zoom, attending from his granddaughter’s officer training course. Katz defended his long-standing political career, highlighting his roles as Likud’s central committee chairman and as a minister in various government departments. He emphasized his efforts to promote women’s representation within the party list, arguing that criticism of his reserved slot overlooked his unsuccessful attempts to increase female candidates.

Some questioned why Katz needed a reserved spot given his senior status in Likud. Party insiders expressed a preference for placing a veteran Likud member like Katz, who has served as a Knesset member and minister, over an external candidate whose loyalty to the party is uncertain. There was also debate over whether Katz should first run in the primaries and only be granted a reserved slot if he failed to secure a position, but this option was rejected to avoid conflict ahead of the primaries.

Looking ahead, Netanyahu’s other reserved slots are expected to face more scrutiny, with calls for in-person discussions by the Likud secretariat rather than phone approvals. However, convening such meetings close to the primaries is seen as impractical due to ongoing campaigns. Following the court hearing, party officials currently anticipate Katz’s reserved spot will ultimately be approved.

Summary: A court injunction temporarily halted Haim Katz’s reserved Likud list slot, causing concern among Netanyahu’s allies. Katz defended his political record and efforts to promote women’s representation. Despite internal debates, party officials expect his slot to be approved before the upcoming primaries.