Legal Challenge Could Boost Ze'ev Elkin and Others in Likud List After Primaries

Following the conclusion of the Likud party primaries, internal disputes remain unresolved regarding the placement of Israel Katz on the party list. Some party members are considering filing a petition to classify Katz as part of Netanyahu's reserved slots, a move that could elevate candidates like Ze'ev Elkin, David Bitan, and Nir Barkat on the list. Elkin, who currently holds the 32nd spot on the Knesset list despite finishing 17th in the national ranking, could potentially rise to around the 24th position if Katz is counted within the reserved quota. However, the exact impact depends on recalculations involving representation guarantees and district allocations.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposes reclassifying Katz, arguing that Katz would have secured a realistic spot regardless, likely within the top 15-20 places, so his inclusion should not reduce Netanyahu's reserved slots. Likud insiders believe the court will find it difficult to overturn the arrangement without Netanyahu's consent, making the chances of forcing the change against his will slim. Should the petition proceed, negotiations with Netanyahu may influence the final decision.

Ze'ev Elkin publicly accepted the primary results and the party's rules, despite his disappointment at being placed 32nd instead of a higher realistic position. He received nearly 23,000 votes, about 30% of the voters, finishing just 239 votes shy of 16th place. Elkin affirmed his commitment to Likud's victory regardless of his Knesset entry and expressed no regrets about returning to Likud and joining the government, stating his decision was ideological and helped prevent the government's collapse.

The Likud list remains unsettled, with the Katz classification dispute potentially reshuffling several candidates' rankings. The final ruling will come from the party's court if the petition is filed, but Netanyahu's stance is expected to carry significant weight in the outcome.