Netanyahu Publicly Endorses Key Candidates Ahead of Likud Primaries

Ahead of the upcoming Likud primaries, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has openly expressed support for a select group of candidates both on the national list and in regional districts. This marks a departure from previous internal elections where endorsements were often discreet and deals were made behind the scenes. Netanyahu’s strategy reflects his belief that the influence of organized political deals within Likud has weakened, and that the outcome will be decided by "free votes" from the party’s 140,000 members.

Netanyahu has promoted candidates through public support videos, strategic campaign roles, and key appointments. Among those endorsed on the national list are Boaz Bismuth, Amichai Shikli, Amir Ohana, Avi Dichter, and Yoav Kish, all integrated into the party’s strategic communications team. Additionally, Avichai Boaron was appointed as head of Likud’s ground campaign, signaling strong backing ahead of the primaries.

Two candidates, Deputy Minister Almog Cohen and Finance Committee Chairman Hanoch Milwitsky, received joint endorsement videos with Netanyahu, confirming their favored status. The Prime Minister also supports Nir Levin and Miri Regev. Netanyahu has selectively shortened the candidacy approval process (Pazam) for certain candidates, including Cohen, Dror Kafach, Shay Kalach, and Eli Shetwi.

In regional districts, Netanyahu’s support is equally visible: Erez Tadmor in the Shfela and Jerusalem/West Bank district, attorney Shlomo Lerner in Tel Aviv and Gush Dan, and former Safed mayor Shuki Ohana in the Galilee and Valleys. Ruth Kabsa Abramson is the new female candidate enjoying his backing. Netanyahu has also instructed his team to assist Ze'ev Elkin in securing a high spot in the primaries, positioning him as the leading Russian-speaking figure in the Knesset for Likud.

There are strong indications of Netanyahu’s support for other candidates such as Moshe Saada and ministers Dudi Amsalem and Shlomo Karhi. This open endorsement approach signals a strategic move by Netanyahu to consolidate influence within the party ahead of the 2026 elections.