Netanyahu Plans Cabinet Changes to Ease Likud Primary Opposition

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to soon implement a series of ministerial changes aimed at softening opposition within the Likud party regarding the upcoming primaries, according to a report by Kan News on Thursday evening. As a caretaker prime minister, Netanyahu has the authority to appoint ministers without Knesset approval and intends to use this power. Although the exact details of the reshuffle have not been finalized, a meeting on the matter took place recently. Potential appointments discussed include positions in the Housing, Health, and Interior Ministries, with names such as Yoav Kisch, Ofir Katz, and Miki Zohar mentioned.

Earlier on Thursday, Kan News reported that Likud candidates fear that senior ministers support canceling the primaries to avoid being placed in unelectable positions on the party list. Both incumbent Knesset members and new contenders expressed concern that Netanyahu is likely to cancel the primaries and instead select the Knesset list through a arranging committee, especially given preparations for a potential security escalation. They also noted that even if Netanyahu’s proposal to hold primaries is approved next week, he might still cancel them close to the election date.