Likud's Shlomo Karhi Opposes Personal Primary Protection, Supports Netanyahu's Right-Wing Bloc Strategy

Shlomo Karhi, Israel's Communications Minister and Likud member, stated in a radio interview on August 12, 2026, that he opposes receiving a protected slot (shiryon) in the upcoming Likud primaries. Karhi called requests by senior party members for guaranteed spots "ridiculous" and emphasized his desire to be judged by the voters after four years of service. Despite his personal stance, he supports Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's authority to allocate protected slots, viewing it as a strategic move to safeguard the broader right-wing bloc in the Knesset.

Karhi explained that Netanyahu’s use of protected slots aims to secure key allies such as Gideon Sa'ar, Bezalel Smotrich, and Itamar Ben-Gvir, thereby maintaining the right-wing coalition’s strength. However, Karhi criticized incumbent Likud MKs seeking protection, saying it is unnecessary and undermines voter trust. He also expressed confidence that his own work will earn him a favorable position in the primaries without protection.

The minister further criticized political opponents, including Naftali Bennett, whom he accused of betraying voters, and Gadi Eizenkot, whom he labeled as the "left’s current messiah" due to his support for refusal to serve in the military. Karhi warned that Eizenkot’s alliances with left-wing and Arab parties threaten Israel’s security and values. He also condemned former ministers like Yair Golan and Ehud Barak for their harsh rhetoric against Israel and the IDF.

On the contentious issue of the military draft law, Karhi called the recent legislative efforts "historic" and blamed the Attorney General and former Likud MK Yuli Edelstein for obstructing progress. He highlighted increased enlistment from the ultra-Orthodox community following government initiatives, arguing that a proper draft law would have led to thousands more recruits. Karhi accused opposition leaders of exploiting the draft debate to incite division and target the ultra-Orthodox for political gain.

Karhi concluded by reaffirming his close relationship with Netanyahu, interpreting the lack of a protected slot offer as a sign of mutual respect and trust. He reiterated his commitment to representing Likud voters faithfully and expressed confidence in the party’s upcoming primaries and electoral prospects.