Netanyahu Ally Says Likud MK Tali Gottlieb Will Not Serve as Minister Despite Strong Primary Showing

Reuven Castro, a close associate of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, commented on the recent Likud primary results published on Tuesday night. He described the outcomes as very positive for Netanyahu, who is reportedly very satisfied. Castro highlighted the need for Netanyahu to promote two candidates who ranked lower than expected: Ze'ev Elkin, placed 32nd, and Avi Dichter, former Shin Bet chief, placed 45th after reserved slots were assigned. Castro said they are awaiting Netanyahu’s reserved slots to strengthen the party.

Addressing internal party disputes, Castro emphasized the importance of setting aside differences to unite for the upcoming Knesset elections. Regarding Tali Gottlieb, who secured the 20th spot after reserved placements, he stated she will not become a minister. He described her position as neither high nor low, but appropriate, and praised her as an excellent Knesset member focused on legislation.

The full primary results showed Minister Eli Cohen in first place, followed by Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana and Justice Minister Yariv Levin. Other top ten candidates included Transportation Minister Miri Regev and Coalition Chairman Ofir Katz. Notably, Gottlieb ranked 12th, David Bitan 15th, and Nir Barkat 16th, with close vote counts separating them from Ze'ev Elkin. Several prominent figures, including Hanoch Milwitsky, May Golan, Keti Shitrit, Ariel Kallner, Idit Silman, Avi Dichter, and Nissim Vaturi, did not secure realistic spots and are expected to be excluded.

Ze'ev Elkin expressed disappointment over his low placement, explaining that due to gender representation rules and other factors, he was placed 32nd despite expecting 17th. He accepted the rules as predetermined. Avi Dichter has not publicly responded yet, but political circles hope Netanyahu might grant him a reserved slot due to the party’s security expert shortage and his former Shin Bet leadership.

Tali Gottlieb also addressed her ranking amid what she described as a smear campaign both inside and outside the party aimed at weakening her. She claimed that despite efforts by Netanyahu’s circle to undermine her, Likud’s right-wing voters strongly supported her. She affirmed her position as realistic within Likud and warned she would speak out if Netanyahu’s advisers shift toward centrist or leftist alliances.