Netanyahu Says Likud Primary Cancellation Is a 50-50 Prospect

Tensions are running high inside Likud over a possible move to cancel the party’s primaries and hand the task of choosing its next Knesset slate to a appointing committee. According to party figures, the idea began as part of negotiations over how many slots Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants reserved for allies, and has now gained momentum. One source who attended Netanyahu’s meeting with Likud mayors told Walla that, for now, Netanyahu assesses the chances at “50-50.”

Behind the technical debate lies a larger struggle over power in the party. Some Likud insiders say the committee could be used to build a fresh list and potentially push out up to eight sitting MKs, described by one source as “those who embarrass us.” Others in the faction, however, reportedly prefer scrapping the primaries because a vote by party members is seen as a risky gamble, while a committee would largely preserve the current balance of power. “In primaries, half the faction can find itself out. In a committee, most people stay,” one source said.

Party officials are also discussing branding the move more softly, possibly calling it a “consultative committee” instead of an “appointing committee,” but the core issue remains who will decide Likud’s list for the next election, rank-and-file members or party power brokers. Netanyahu is said to be moving carefully and seeking understandings with key figures including ministers Haim Katz and Israel Katz, MK David Bitan and Minister Miki Zohar. The expectation is that if their standing and their supporters are protected, resistance will be limited.

In parallel, Likud is examining rule changes if primaries do go ahead. One proposal, advanced by Haim Katz, would let female MKs who are not serving as ministers run in regional slots. That could help MK Eti Atia, who is close to Katz and is considered unlikely to win through the national list. Under current rules, incumbents cannot compete in regional slots, only first-time candidates. Minister Idit Silman is also watching closely and is reportedly considering resigning from the government to run in the Shfela district if primaries are held alongside Katz’s proposed change. Likud expects a decision within days. Silman’s office said she will remain in her post and “will run as usual in the primaries.” Katz denied the claim, saying, “There is no truth in the allegation. Nonsense.”