Likud Primaries Proceed After Tali Gottlieb Withdraws Petition Over Israel Katz's Secured Spot

Ahead of the Likud party primaries scheduled for tomorrow, Member of Knesset Tali Gottlieb withdrew her petition challenging the reserved slot granted to Defense Minister Israel Katz. Gottlieb had filed the petition amid internal party tensions regarding Katz's secured position on the party list for the 26th Knesset. She alleged improper conduct by Katz, including public appearances and campaign videos during the primaries, which she claimed were inappropriate given his guaranteed spot. Gottlieb also criticized the decision-making process behind granting the reserved slot, citing confidential security considerations and Katz's participation in political events.

Despite withdrawing the petition to avoid delaying or potentially canceling the primaries, the Likud party's internal court sharply criticized Katz's public campaign activities, labeling them a "mistake" that should have been avoided since his place on the list was assured. The court's president, Attorney Michael Kleiner, accepted the withdrawal, closing the internal legal dispute without further hearings. Gottlieb stated her concern that continuing the legal process could have postponed the primaries or cast doubt on their legitimacy.

This development resolves the immediate controversy surrounding Katz's reserved position and allows the Likud primaries to proceed as planned, maintaining party unity ahead of the upcoming elections.