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Likud political storm: Netanyahu's demand for reserved spots sparks tension

From Jerusalem Post · (6m ago) English Critical tone

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly demanding ten reserved spots on the Likud party's national list for upcoming elections.
  • This demand could displace a significant number of current ministers and Knesset members, with up to 70% potentially not making it into the next Knesset.
  • Netanyahu's stated concern is to energize the Likud base by including prominent figures from the aftermath of the October 7th tragedy, though a Likud spokesperson denied the report as "fake news."

A significant political storm is brewing within the Likud party as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly insists on securing ten reserved spots on the national list for the upcoming elections. This demand, if realized, threatens to fundamentally reshape the party's roster, potentially pushing out a substantial portion of current ministers and Knesset members. A senior Likud official described the situation as a "totally crazy event" and warned of a "political massacre on the list like never before," highlighting the severe internal repercussions.

Netanyahu's strategy appears aimed at bolstering voter enthusiasm by curating a list that resonates with the party's base. The plan reportedly includes incorporating prominent individuals connected to the October 7th tragedy, such as families of victims and hostages, to craft a compelling narrative that will drive turnout. This approach suggests a focus on leveraging national sentiment to secure electoral success, a move that could be seen as both strategic and controversial within the party ranks.

This is a totally crazy event. We are heading for a political massacre on the list like never before.

โ€” Senior Likud officialDescribing the potential impact of Netanyahu's demand on the party's list.

However, the Prime Minister's office, through a Likud spokesperson, has vehemently denied these reports, labeling them "complete fake news." The spokesperson reaffirmed Netanyahu's unwavering commitment to the Likud movement and its electoral victory, stating, "Unlike others, Prime Minister Netanyahu does not jump between parties and ideologies. He will lead the Likud movement to victory for the national camp in the upcoming elections." This strong denial indicates a potential internal disagreement or an attempt to manage public perception amidst the reported internal power struggle.

Unlike others, Prime Minister Netanyahu does not jump between parties and ideologies. He will lead the Likud movement to victory for the national camp in the upcoming elections. For the Prime Minister and many others, Likud has always been, and will always be, home, and home is not abandoned.

โ€” Likud spokespersonDenying reports about Netanyahu's demands and reaffirming his commitment to Likud.
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Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.