Likud Primaries Begin Amid Fierce Battle Over Tali Gottlieb's Political Future

The Likud party's primary elections have started under tense circumstances, with Member of Knesset Tali Gottlieb fighting to secure her position amid internal opposition and strategic efforts to exclude her from the top ten list. While Gottlieb enjoys significant popularity in public polls and could potentially secure the leading spot, powerful factions within Likud are reportedly working to push her out in favor of a more moderate list appealing to center-right voters.

Political commentator Maxim Okunin highlighted that Gottlieb has openly criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of trying to politically eliminate her. This confrontation is seen as a major political blow during the primaries, especially since Gottlieb has refrained from attacking opposition figures with similar intensity. Netanyahu and his team are reportedly relying on internal surveys indicating that Gottlieb's high placement could cost Likud two to three seats by alienating voters.

The situation is further complicated by efforts from Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who revealed that several Likud ministers and MKs have requested secured spots on his party list, with Gottlieb among those suspected of seeking such arrangements. Analysts view Gottlieb's decision to escalate tensions rather than seek reconciliation with party leadership as a tactical error.

Despite these challenges, some believe Gottlieb's grassroots support and reputation for courageously opposing the judicial system could help her overcome the organized opposition. Political analyst Shneor Ver expressed optimism that the 100,000 Likud members who support her could enable her to secure a top position on the list. Meanwhile, Netanyahu is actively engaging local branch leaders to ensure the primary results align with the party's electoral interests.