Nissim Mashal Challenges Ze'ev Elkin Over Gideon Sa'ar's List Placement Ahead of Likud Primaries

Ahead of the Likud primaries scheduled for August 14, 2026, broadcaster Nissim Mashal confronted Minister Ze'ev Elkin regarding the exclusion of Mashal from the party's secured list slots. Mashal questioned Elkin why Gideon Sa'ar did not reserve a spot for him, accusing Sa'ar of abandoning him. Elkin responded that the party did what was necessary to enable Sa'ar to serve as Foreign Minister, emphasizing that Sa'ar alone decides on list placements.

Despite doubts expressed by interviewers about his chances in the primaries, Elkin expressed confidence, citing strong grassroots support from numerous mayors and national groups. He highlighted his previous successful primary campaigns, securing high list positions in the past, and affirmed his intention to compete again, leaving the final decision to Likud voters.

On policy matters, Elkin opposed renewing administrative detentions for Israeli citizens, calling the measure ineffective and advocating for consistent treatment of Israeli citizens both inside and beyond the Green Line. The discussion took place on 103FM radio on August 13, 2026, shortly before the party's internal elections.