Economy Minister Nir Barkat Denies Plotting to Oust Netanyahu, Affirms Loyalty

Israeli Economy Minister Nir Barkat denied reports claiming he planned to oust Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In an interview on Kan News and Reshet Bet radio on Friday, Barkat said these allegations are politically motivated attempts to damage him. "They are trying to destroy me. They know well that I am a threat to their future," he stated.

Barkat recalled that Netanyahu himself had previously asked him about these claims during a conversation three years ago, to which Barkat responded with a denial. "I denied it then and I deny it today," he emphasized. Barkat also reaffirmed his support for Netanyahu, saying, "I am loyal to the Prime Minister, I have always supported him, stood by him, and I am by his side today. I believe he is the most suitable person to lead the country."

The allegations surfaced recently, suggesting that after October 7, Barkat considered efforts to replace Netanyahu. Reports indicated he held discussions with political figures and explored forming an alternative government, but the plan did not materialize. Barkat firmly denied any such actions and clarified that he had also denied these claims directly to Netanyahu when they were raised in the past.

This controversy unfolds amid internal political struggles within the Likud party and preparations for upcoming primaries, with Barkat regarded as a prominent minister who might vie for party leadership in the future.