Netanyahu Navigates Critical Likud Primaries Amid Right-Wing Coalition Challenges

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized the critical importance of the upcoming Likud primaries, viewing the party list as decisive for the general elections. Despite past skepticism about internal party elections, Netanyahu opted to allow the primaries but is actively influencing the candidate list through legal maneuvers, reserved spots, and political backing to shape a strong, popular slate. This approach contrasts with other Israeli parties that operate more like monarchies without internal democratic processes.

Netanyahu’s influence extends to supporting candidates like Almog Cohen, a late entrant without traditional party backing, and managing the fate of incumbent ministers who may lose their seats due to voter preferences. He has also appointed Avichai Boaron, a key figure in right-wing activism and settlement building, as head of the party’s ground operations. Netanyahu’s team maintains a WhatsApp group to coordinate media efforts during the campaign.

The article highlights the weakening of traditional power brokers within Likud, suggesting the primaries will be more meritocratic, favoring candidates with proven public recognition and achievements. Netanyahu’s strategy also involves consolidating the right-wing bloc, which currently suffers from fragmentation and ego clashes, to avoid electoral failure. He plans to pressure right-wing candidates to unify under a single leadership, contrasting with the left-wing camp’s lack of consensus around leader Gadi Eizenkot.

Meanwhile, former Likud minister Gilad Erdan has launched a new party called Unity, targeting voters who prioritize political unity over leadership disputes. Erdan acknowledges his party appeals mainly to right-wing voters dissatisfied with existing coalitions, especially the alliance with ultra-Orthodox parties. His challenge lies in overcoming skepticism due to past defections by right-wing politicians and regaining trust among voters.

The article also discusses Religious Zionism leader Bezalel Smotrich’s steady rise despite initial polling struggles, crediting his quiet but effective influence on settlement expansion and coalition policies. Smotrich remains a key Netanyahu ally, shaping government decisions without public confrontation. The piece concludes that the upcoming primaries and coalition negotiations will be decisive for the right-wing’s electoral success and Netanyahu’s political future.