Right-Wing Backlash Erupts Over Likud Primary Results, Netanyahu Faces Criticism

The recent Likud primaries have sparked significant criticism and disappointment among right-wing voters, particularly on social media platforms associated with the C14 group. The main source of discontent centers on the placement of MK Tali Gottlieb near the bottom of the second tier of the list and the exclusion of Minister May Golan from the party slate altogether. Many supporters expressed frustration with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the candidate rankings, viewing the results as unrepresentative of right-wing voters' preferences.

Some commentators threatened to shift their votes to other right-wing parties such as Otzma Yehudit or Zehut, signaling a potential fragmentation of the right-wing electorate. One social media user wrote, "We will settle accounts with Bibi at the ballot box. This is rigged and does not reflect the voice of right-wing voters." Another noted, "Tali at number 20 and May Golan out? Is this real? Only Ben Gvir, bye bye Likud."

Additional criticism targeted the continued presence of veteran Likud members like Miki Zohar, David Bitan, and Yoav Gallant, with some calling for their removal. One user commented, "They should have been out long ago, Regev, Amsalem, Haim Katz, Israel Katz, Ohana, and Bitan. Everything is rigged. Bibi, you are making a mistake, they will sell you out and continue to undermine you."

Despite some supportive voices for the new list, the dominant tone on social media was one of disappointment and anger. Several users warned that unless Gottlieb receives a significant role, they and others might leave Likud for other right-wing factions. The primary results have thus intensified internal tensions within the right-wing camp ahead of the upcoming elections.