Likud: Half of Faction Set to Exit Knesset Next Week; MKs Running for Districts Must Resign Today

The Likud party is facing a significant internal upheaval following a decision by its party court that prohibits sitting MKs and ministers from running for district slots without first resigning their current seats. This development, reported Tuesday morning, carries immediate consequences for the party's lineup as the deadline for these resignations is set for today.

Impact on the Faction

According to political analyst Amit Segal, the practical implication of this ruling is that at least half of the current Likud faction will find themselves outside the Knesset by next week. The ruling effectively forces a choice between maintaining a current seat or taking a political risk by resigning to compete for regional representation. One notable impact mentioned in reports is the inability of Minister Haim Katz to promote his associate, MK Etty Atia, within the district slots under these new constraints.

Political Context

This internal restructuring comes during a period of heightened political activity. As The Zioneer reported earlier, the Knesset is already scheduled for dissolution on July 17, with general elections set for October 27, 2026. The Likud has recently seen fluctuations in polling and internal friction, including the departure of veteran figures like Yuli Edelstein. This court ruling adds a layer of procedural pressure on the party's rank-and-file as they prepare for the upcoming primaries. The immediate requirement to resign suggests a rapid turnover within the faction as candidates pivot to secure their positions on the next party list.