A political analysis circulating in Likud circles alleges that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was blackmailed by party officials Haim Katz and Israel Katz to approve reserved Knesset slots. The analysis states the late-night announcement was made to minimize political damage, and that Likud sources expect the secretariat to ratify the slots in the morning due to distrust in Netanyahu's promises.
An analysis published late Monday night by a political observer following Likud internal affairs alleges that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is being blackmailed by two senior party figures over the allocation of reserved Knesset slots. According to the analysis, Likud Central Committee chairman Haim Katz has been pressuring Netanyahu to approve party regulations and slot allocations, while Likud secretariat chairman Israel Katz is also leveraging his position to secure concessions. The analysis states that the announcement of the reserved slots—reportedly nine in total, including one for Michelle Boskilla—was timed for late at night after the economic slot was disclosed, in an effort to minimize political fallout.
Likud sources cited in the analysis estimate that the party secretariat will be asked to ratify the slots on Tuesday morning, as senior Likud members lack trust in Netanyahu's assurances. The analysis describes the episode as a low point for Netanyahu's leadership, saying he 'was led and not leading.' The Zioneer has extensively covered Likud infighting over reserved slots, including Netanyahu's earlier demand for 10 slots and threats to leave the party. This new allegation of blackmail marks a significant deterioration in internal party relations.
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