Likud Deputy Speaker Reveals Past Attempts to Replace Netanyahu Within Party

Nissim Vaturi, Deputy Speaker of the Knesset and Likud member, addressed claims of efforts to oust Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from the party during a radio interview on 104.5FM. Vaturi acknowledged that while there have been attempts to topple Netanyahu in the past, none occurred within Likud itself. He revealed that more dramatic internal moves had taken place previously, including an effort to crown Avigdor Lieberman as leader during Netanyahu’s tenure.

Vaturi’s comments come amid growing preparations within Likud for upcoming primaries and increasing concerns in Netanyahu’s circle about potential challenges after the internal elections. Reports from Maariv indicated that Netanyahu’s team is working to minimize the risk of current Knesset members being placed in nonviable list positions, which could lead them to organize politically against him.

The discussion also touched on former Likud minister Nir Barkat, who is returning to politics, and Vaturi noted that Netanyahu personally asked him to return. These developments highlight the internal tensions and strategic maneuvering within Likud as it approaches its leadership contest.