Netanyahu Holds Meetings With Likud MKs to Prevent Post-Primary Revolt

Ahead of the upcoming Likud primaries, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been conducting a series of intensive meetings with Likud Members of Knesset (MKs) to unify the party and prevent defections or rebellion after the primaries. More than half of the current Likud MKs are expected to lose their realistic spots on the party list for the next Knesset, raising concerns that some may act against the party’s interests once they know they will not return to parliament.

During these meetings, Netanyahu has reportedly offered some MKs potential senior public or diplomatic roles if they fail to secure a seat in the primaries, though a source close to Netanyahu denied that any formal offers were made during these talks. The prime minister has also appointed some MKs to key party roles to bolster their chances, such as naming Avichai Boaron as head of the party’s field operations.

Notably, Netanyahu proposed a diplomatic post as Israeli ambassador to the United Arab Emirates to first-term MK Eliyahu Revivo, who is considering the offer. Other MKs, including Eli Delal, also received similar diplomatic role proposals. These moves come amid internal tensions within Likud, especially among newer MKs who are worried about losing their seats.

Netanyahu’s efforts to secure the party list include granting eight reserved spots, mostly in realistic positions, to key figures such as ministers Gideon Sa’ar, Haim Katz, and Israel Katz. Businessman Oren Dobronski also received a reserved spot, expected to be high on the list. Some senior party members view Netanyahu’s heavy-handed approach as excessive and potentially divisive, but the prime minister is focused on preventing any internal revolt and maintaining party cohesion ahead of the elections.

Summary: Prime Minister Netanyahu is meeting with Likud MKs to prevent post-primary rebellion by offering diplomatic roles and party positions, while managing internal tensions as many MKs face losing their seats in the upcoming primaries.