Netanyahu Allies Plan to Remove Ultra-Orthodox Likud Members Not Voting for Party

Following the recent primaries, associates of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu intend to purge the Likud party of ultra-Orthodox members who do not support the party. The plan involves identifying groups of members who have expressed support for other parties or disqualifying entire membership lists, according to a report by Daniel Grobais on Channel 11. This initiative is developing after cooperation between the Likud's ultra-Orthodox membership coordinator and Knesset member David Bitan, who arranged deals during the primaries. Netanyahu has so far allowed this process to proceed without objection.

At the same time, names of ministers and Knesset members have appeared on lists maintained by key ultra-Orthodox coordinators who direct voting efforts and organize transportation to polling stations. Energy and Infrastructure Minister Eli Cohen was listed by the Gur Hasidic group due to his support for facilitating pilgrimages to Uman during Rosh Hashanah. Finance Committee Chairman Hanoch Milwiczky appeared on several lists because of his committee work and public support for the ultra-Orthodox community. Justice Minister Yariv Levin was also noted by multiple coordinators for his backing of the judicial reform and criticism of the judiciary system, which has garnered ultra-Orthodox support.