Netanyahu Strengthens Hold as Silman Falls in Turbulent Likud Primaries

The recent Likud primaries shook the party's leadership, with Benjamin Netanyahu emerging stronger while key figures like Idith Silman and Nir Barkat faced setbacks. Silman, despite her intense efforts and public displays of support for Netanyahu, failed to secure a favorable position, with commentators noting that her excessive flattery did not translate into votes. Barkat, who invested millions in his campaign aiming to lead the party, was decisively defeated, signaling a significant political blow to his ambitions.

Tali Gottlieb's unexpected low ranking surprised analysts and Netanyahu's team, who reportedly did not favor her as a top candidate. Political commentator Zohar Tzur humorously remarked on other surprising results, including the position of candidate Vaturi, but emphasized that overall, the results underscored Netanyahu's consolidated power within the party. Netanyahu's influence was also evident in regional districts, where he successfully promoted candidates aligned with him.

The primaries' outcome suggests Netanyahu is well-positioned to maintain control over the Likud list heading into the upcoming elections, reinforcing his personal and political standing. The results reflect a clear message from party members, diminishing the prospects of challengers like Barkat and sidelining others who failed to gain Netanyahu's backing. The internal dynamics revealed in these primaries will likely shape the party's strategy and leadership structure moving forward.