Netanyahu Targets Key Allies in Likud Primary Purge Ahead of Vote
Translated & summarized from Srugim by baba
Ahead of the Likud primaries, Netanyahu reportedly seeks to remove key allies including Tali Gottlieb, Nir Barkat, and David Bitan from the party list, refusing to meet Barkat amid rumors of internal dissent.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Netanyahu aims to exclude Tali Gottlieb, Nir Barkat, and David Bitan from Likud's primary list.
- Political reporter Michael Shemesh calls this a "settling of scores."
- Netanyahu refused to meet Economy Minister Nir Barkat to discuss alleged plots against him.
- Barkat denies claims he tried to oust Netanyahu after October 7 events.
- Netanyahu's refusal to meet is a major political setback for Barkat.
- Recent polls show Netanyahu recovering politically ahead of the primaries.
One day before the Likud party primaries, political reporter Michael Shemesh revealed a so-called "hit list" targeting close associates of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The list reportedly includes Knesset members Tali Gottlieb and David Bitan, as well as Minister Nir Barkat. Shemesh described the move as "settling scores," with Netanyahu aiming to remove these figures from the party slate.
Tali Gottlieb, perceived as independent and rebellious, has long faced opposition from Netanyahu regarding her placement on the Likud list, though she denies these claims. Earlier on the same day, Walla News reported that Netanyahu refused to meet with Economy Minister Nir Barkat. Barkat had sought the meeting to clear the air amid rumors he worked behind the scenes to oust Netanyahu from party and government leadership following the events of October 7, allegations Barkat strongly denies.
Netanyahu's refusal to meet Barkat is seen as a significant political blow, as such a meeting could have signaled reconciliation and helped Barkat maintain a strong position in the primaries. The developments come amid shifting political dynamics within Likud, with recent polls indicating Netanyahu is beginning to recover politically, while other figures like Benny Gantz face difficulties and Naftali Bennett gains strength.
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