Netanyahu Faces New Political Challenges After Likud Primaries Ahead of October Elections

The conclusion of the Likud primaries at Bloomfield Stadium on August 18 marked the end of a tense and contentious period within the party, featuring political rivalries, deals, and a large turnout of tens of thousands of members. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu can now focus on the upcoming political challenges with just over two months remaining until the general elections scheduled for October 27. The top five candidates secured their positions comfortably: Eli Cohen took first place, followed by Amir Ohana, Yariv Levin, Miri Regev, and coalition chairman Ofir Katz, who made the largest leap in the rankings.

Some candidates were less satisfied with the results, including MK Tali Gottlieb, who was pushed down despite efforts from Netanyahu’s circle, and MK David Bitan, who survived an aggressive political campaign to secure a stable spot. Economy Minister Nir Barkat narrowly retained a realistic position amid accusations that he led a coup attempt against Netanyahu within Likud following the October 7 attacks.

A significant issue remains the low representation of women in the top 30 slots, with only three women elected: Regev, Gottlieb, and Minister Gila Gamliel. This has sparked criticism and discussions within Likud about reserving additional spots for women, possibly including candidates like Keti Shitrit or Eti Atiya. Another candidate from New Hope, MK Michel Buskila, is expected to be placed near the end of the second ten slots.

Netanyahu’s next focus will be on shaping the party list and securing reserved spots, with ministers Israel Katz and Gideon Sa’ar guaranteed places in the top five. Additionally, he must work on consolidating the right-wing bloc, a task complicated by fractures within his loyalist camp, especially with ultra-Orthodox parties. Netanyahu is also concerned about the presence of new political players such as Moshe Feiglin, Gilad Erdan, and Ofer Winter, who could siphon votes from Likud.

The campaign is expected to intensify from next week, with Netanyahu aiming to attract moderate supporters and emphasizing the goal of forming a broad national government. The main electoral rival, according to polls, is Gadi Eizenkot of the Yisrael party. Despite recent internal difficulties and low expectations, the primaries have injected some optimism among Likud ministers about their chances in the upcoming elections, though not all ministers share this sentiment.