Likud sources report that the possibility of an arranging committee has not been ruled out, and if the security situation prevents primaries, they will be canceled. At the same time, Prime Minister Netanyahu is demanding that his eight reserved slots be placed in the top 20 positions of the party list. Discussions and votes on the matter are expected to continue until at least Thursday.
Prime Minister Netanyahu is demanding that his eight reserved slots on the Likud list be placed in the top 20 positions, according to party sources. The demand comes as the party continues to debate the possibility of an arranging committee, with discussions and votes expected to continue until at least Thursday. This development escalates an internal battle that has been brewing for weeks.
The Zioneer reported earlier today (Sun 14:41 Jerusalem) a series of statements from Netanyahu on the committee issue. Initially, he said he prefers primaries but would keep the option of a sorting committee if the security situation requires. Shortly after, he clarified that he opposes an arranging committee but would head one in an emergency, adding a clause to that effect. He then confirmed that if security prevents primaries, an arranging committee will determine the list. These statements, reported within the same hour, show the rapid evolution of his position.
The Zioneer has been tracking the Likud list battle for weeks. On June 22, we reported that Likud infighting intensified over Netanyahu's earlier demand for 10 reserved slots. On July 1, a compromise proposal was reported that would place his picks up to slot 25. The current demand for 8 slots in the top 20 represents a reduction from the earlier 10, but still seeks significant control over the party's electoral slate.
It remains unclear whether the party's Central Committee or other bodies will accept this demand. The security situation—ongoing military operations against Iran, as previously reported—could still determine whether primaries are held or an arranging committee is formed. Discussions are set to continue through Thursday, with no final decision yet.
7 developments
- DevelopingNetanyahu to receive 8 reserved slots on Likud list, MK Buaron says
- StrongLikud Constitution Committee to discuss reserved slots for Netanyahu on Sunday
- StrongNetanyahu demands 11 ministerial portfolios in top 40 Knesset slots
- DevelopingMinister Eli Cohen expects Netanyahu to receive 6-7 'reserved' Knesset seats in Likud primary
Source and signal
- Internal intake