Netanyahu Faces Dilemma Over Supporting Fourth Right-Wing Party Amid Likud Primaries

During the recent Likud primaries, a fierce contest unfolded over the 25th spot on the party list, which is reserved for female representation. The competition was primarily between Eti Atiya, an ally of Haim Katz, and Minister Gila Gamliel. Throughout the night, the lead shifted between the two, with Gamliel ultimately securing the position. Despite reports of discrepancies in one ballot box examined by Atiya, no significant reversal is expected, according to political desk chief Mati Tuchfeld.

Tuchfeld also addressed the broader issue of fragmentation within the right-wing bloc. He revealed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is currently hesitant to support the establishment of a fourth right-wing party, which would aim to attract voters disillusioned with the coalition. This hesitation stems from concerns about vote splitting, especially since the proposed party led by Ofer Winter intends neither to align with Netanyahu nor with Benny Gantz. Consequently, Netanyahu prefers the right-wing bloc to run united under Likud, Religious Zionism, and Otzma Yehudit.

This political calculation highlights Netanyahu's strategic dilemma as he balances maintaining party unity against the risk of losing votes to new right-wing factions. The outcome of these decisions will shape the composition of the right-wing bloc in the upcoming elections.