Netanyahu Pushes to Revamp Likud List with New Faces Ahead of Primaries

The Likud party's primary elections begin on Monday, marking a decisive moment in the internal battle over the party's candidate list. Prime Minister and Likud chairman Benjamin Netanyahu is focusing on reshaping the party by introducing new members rather than supporting incumbent ministers and Knesset members. According to Channel 13 political correspondent Michael Shemesh, Netanyahu is primarily working to add fresh faces to the list at the expense of those he fears might secure spots, while only reserving places for three current Likud members.

This strategy reflects Netanyahu's ongoing struggle over the party's composition, as he reportedly told close associates that the existing list "will not bring governance" and called for a "reshuffle." The competition is especially fierce this time due to reserved slots and changes in the list structure, which have significantly reduced the number of realistic spots available for candidates on the national list. This situation raises the possibility that even prominent ministers and sitting Knesset members could fail to secure a place in the next Knesset.

When the polls close, the results will reveal not only who won the personal battles at the top of Likud but also how effectively Netanyahu has influenced the makeup of the faction that will stand with him in the upcoming general elections.