Likud Minister Eli Cohen Condemns Attempted Coup Against Netanyahu Amid Internal Party Rift

The political turmoil within Israel's Likud party continues to escalate over attempts to oust Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the start of the recent war, deepening internal divisions ahead of the party's tense primaries. On Thursday morning, Energy and Infrastructure Minister Eli Cohen sharply criticized those involved in the reported coup efforts during a radio interview with Kol Barama. Cohen declared, "Anyone who attempted a putsch against the Prime Minister during wartime acted inappropriately and has no place on the Likud list." He also revealed that he was aware of behind-the-scenes contacts at the time but was not part of them.

This controversy follows reports on Channels 12 and 14 that Economy Minister Nir Barkat, along with other ministers such as Yoav Galant and Yuli Edelstein, sought to promote a constructive no-confidence motion to replace Netanyahu with Benny Gantz after the October swearing-in. Barkat strongly denied these claims during an appearance on the Patriots channel, calling them "nonsense" and explaining that his early criticism was policy-focused, particularly regarding the entry of Palestinian workers and northern border responses. He emphasized that since the State Camp faction left the government, his criticism turned into full support for Netanyahu.

Despite Barkat's denials, Cohen's remarks indicate that tensions remain high within Likud, with the issue continuing to fuel factional battles as candidates vie for votes in the upcoming primaries. The internal strife highlights the fragile state of unity in Netanyahu's party during a critical period for Israel's security and political future.