Netanyahu Dominates Likud Primaries Amid Leadership and Security Gaps

The recent Likud primaries concluded with Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirming his dominant control over the party, but beneath this victory lies a troubling reality. Once a party of strong leaders and clear ideology, Likud has transformed into what political commentator Ben Caspit describes as a "troop of trembling dwarfs." The party now lacks women, credible security experts, and genuine leadership figures willing to stand firm or sacrifice for the cause.

Caspit criticizes Netanyahu for reducing his party members to submissive followers who simply say yes, which has led to a candidate list filled with uninspiring figures. The party has lost its backbone, moral compass, and ideological vigor, which previously included a proud liberal security stance and a commitment to judicial reform and constitutional principles.

The article highlights the departure of prominent members like Idith Silman, who, after a year of alliance with Mansour Abbas and leading the coalition, left the party once promised a safe spot on the list. Caspit suggests no one will mourn her exit. He also reflects on the curious case of Avi Dichter, a figure known for courage, who now appears to have compromised his values under Netanyahu's influence.

Nir Barkat, placed low on the list, is expected to be pushed further down as Netanyahu considers reserving spots on the list to prevent vote splitting, turning Barkat into a political caricature. Caspit laments the vast sums the Netanyahu family has spent over two decades to secure Netanyahu's leadership, questioning whether they might have accepted stepping aside for less. The piece paints a picture of a party hollowed out by loyalty to Netanyahu, lacking the leadership and security expertise it once had.

Summary: Benjamin Netanyahu solidified his control in the Likud primaries, but the party now suffers from a lack of women, security experts, and strong leaders, reflecting a decline from its former ideological and leadership stature. Key figures like Idith Silman have left, and others like Avi Dichter appear compromised, while Netanyahu's dominance continues to shape a weakened party structure.