Likud Confirms Deputy Minister Almog Cohen Will Join Party List for Next Knesset

A senior Likud official has confirmed that Deputy Minister Almog Cohen will be included in the party's list for the upcoming Knesset elections. The primary plan is to secure Cohen a reserved spot within the eight slots approved by the Likud convention at Prime Minister Netanyahu's request. Another option under consideration is allowing Cohen to run in the party primaries despite missing the registration deadline, which would require special approval from Netanyahu and a review of party rules, as Cohen is not currently a Likud member.

Cohen, who previously resigned from the Otzma Yehudit party after breaking party discipline during a crucial budget vote, was subsequently appointed Deputy Minister by Netanyahu. Their close relationship is expected to influence Cohen's inclusion on the Likud list. Additionally, Cohen has been in talks with the Zehut party, led by Moshe Feiglin and Michael Ben Ari, and recently met with Feiglin to explore a potential joint run.

This development follows earlier reports of pressure within Likud to secure Cohen's position on the list, highlighting his pivotal role during past coalition votes. The final decision on Cohen's candidacy and list placement is pending further internal discussions and procedural clarifications.