Netanyahu's Circle Plans to Purge Non-Supportive Ultra-Orthodox Members from Likud After Primaries

Following the conclusion of the Likud party primaries, associates of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are reportedly preparing to filter and disqualify ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) party members who do not support the party. This move echoes previous political campaigns against groups like the "New Likudniks" during earlier internal elections. The initiative arises from the political coordination between the Haredi faction within the party and Knesset member David Bitan, forged through deals made during the primaries, despite Netanyahu's prior reluctance to intervene.

The plan involves identifying members who have publicly supported other political frameworks and potentially disqualifying entire groups on the grounds that they are not genuine Likud voters. Concurrently, the names of ministers, Knesset members, and new candidates backed by influential Haredi party members have sparked internal debates among candidates and voters alike. These key members significantly influence the voting preferences of Haredi Likud supporters and provide crucial backing to various candidates.

Some of these influential members organize transportation to polling stations, contributing to what many consider a successful election day operation. Notable candidates endorsed by Haredi factions include Energy and Infrastructure Minister Eli Cohen, supported by the Gur Hasidic sect for his stance on allowing Hasidim to visit Uman during Rosh Hashanah. Finance Committee Chairman Hanoch Milwiczky also received backing from several Haredi members due to his committee work and public support for the Haredi sector. Additionally, Justice Minister Yariv Levin was favored by various Haredi members for his support of judicial reforms and criticism of the judiciary system.