Likud MK Tali Gottlieb Blames Netanyahu's Circle for Lower Primary Ranking

Likud Member of Knesset Tali Gottlieb responded sharply to her placement at 12th on the party's national list following the recent primaries, a position that secures her a realistic seat in the next Knesset but falls short of her and her supporters' expectations. Gottlieb accused Prime Minister Netanyahu's inner circle of actively working to undermine her, stating that despite coordinated efforts to block her support and the absence of Netanyahu's endorsement, right-wing Likud voters strongly backed her.

Her lower ranking came after internal polls presented to Netanyahu indicated that placing Gottlieb higher on the list could cost the party two to three seats in the general elections. Consequently, there was a recommendation to temper support for her among party members. Gottlieb expressed satisfaction with her secured spot but warned against any shift by Netanyahu's advisors toward centrist figures like Benny Gantz or Gadi Eizenkot, vowing to speak out even if interview restrictions were imposed.

She concluded with a nationalist message emphasizing the Jewish identity of the state across both sides of the Jordan River. Due to Netanyahu's reserved slots and regional representatives, Gottlieb ultimately appears at 19th on the final Likud list. Most polls project Likud winning about 23 seats, ensuring her a place in the upcoming Knesset.