Gottlieb Threatens to Leave Likud Over Knesset Seat, Accuses Netanyahu of Deal

Member of Knesset (MK) Tali Gottlieb has threatened to leave the Likud party if she is not placed in a more favorable position on the party's Knesset list, specifically demanding the 12th spot. Gottlieb, who was placed in the latter half of the second ten in the Likud primaries, has reportedly told Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that she will consider moving to another party if her demand is not met. The Likud party has officially rejected Gottlieb's ultimatum, stating it was dismissed outright.

In closed-door conversations with supporters, Gottlieb has also launched a sharp attack against Netanyahu, accusing him of striking a "deal" to receive a presidential pardon in exchange for shelving the judicial reform. Exclusive recordings of these remarks were broadcast by N12.

According to Gottlieb's claims, Netanyahu's motivation for pushing her down the list stems from a fear that she might alienate voters. However, she alleges that his true intention is to secure a pardon, which would only happen if the judicial overhaul is abandoned. She stated to her supporters, "The Prime Minister will receive a pardon, provided there is no judicial reform, and provided there is no touch, even the slightest, on the Supreme Court justices and their powers, this is the painful truth."

Netanyahu reportedly attempted to sideline Gottlieb due to concerns about her potential impact on election results. While his efforts were partially successful, she remains in a position where she could still be elected to the next Knesset. However, her recent statements suggest she could still cause significant difficulties for the Prime Minister during the upcoming election campaign.