Internal Likud Debates Emerge Over Leadership After Netanyahu Amidst Party Tensions

Confidential WhatsApp conversations among Likud activists reveal growing calls within the party to find a new leader to challenge Benjamin Netanyahu following the October 7 attacks. These discussions, dating back to the November primaries last year, show activists urging for a rival candidate from within Likud to step forward, despite Netanyahu running unopposed and securing automatic re-election as party leader.

Hagai Stern, a former Likud MK and member of the party's election and constitution committees, publicly supported the call for new leadership, emphasizing that his past support for Netanyahu makes him believe a change is now necessary. His father echoed these sentiments, urging party members to consider new leadership seriously. This sparked heated debates within the group, with some activists defending Netanyahu amid ongoing attacks against him, while others questioned whether past injustices justify continued support despite recent failures that led to hundreds of civilian deaths.

The internal discord extends beyond activists to the party's senior management, highlighting a significant split over Netanyahu's future. A list compiled by thousands of party members identifies preferred candidates for upcoming primaries, including notable figures like Yariv Levin and Amir Ohana, who have been mentioned as potential successors. This suggests an emerging positioning for a future leadership race within Likud.

The revelations indicate that dissatisfaction with Netanyahu's leadership is not limited to political rivals but includes long-time supporters and central party figures. It is likely Netanyahu is aware of this unrest, which may explain his strategic efforts to shape the upcoming Knesset list through reserved seats and committee controls aimed at sidelining potential political threats and consolidating his position.

In response, Hagai Stern clarified that his criticism stems from a desire to strengthen the party and support leaders who can secure victory and national security. He acknowledged Netanyahu's recent decisive actions during the conflict and expressed hope that the party list would include war heroes to reinforce Likud's resilience and success.