Netanyahu comes out on top in Likud primaries, but voters want more - analysis

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emerged as the clear victor in the recent Likud primaries, with the results largely reflecting his influence over the party's internal politics. Candidates who have demonstrated consistent loyalty and support for Netanyahu, such as Amir Ohana and Almog Cohen, secured prominent positions on the party's Knesset list. Conversely, those who have clashed with the prime minister saw their standing diminish.

The primaries underscored the paramount importance of loyalty to Netanyahu within the Likud party. Eli Cohen, who received the most votes after Netanyahu, and Amir Ohana, who came in third, exemplify this trend. Their success is attributed to their unwavering support for the prime minister and their avoidance of positioning themselves as potential rivals, thereby not being perceived as a threat. This contrasts with past high-ranking members who eventually left the party due to ideological clashes or blocked advancement.

Despite the apparent success of Netanyahu's allies, the article cautions against overemphasizing individual wins. Historical analysis of the last four Likud primaries, dating back to 2008, reveals that nearly half of the individuals who secured top five positions have since departed the party, either temporarily or permanently. Figures like Yoav Gallant, Yuli Edelstein, and Gideon Sa'ar are cited as examples of politicians whose paths within Likud shifted significantly over time.

The results also suggest that the party's rank-and-file recognizes the need for electoral pragmatism to win a general election. While loyalty to Netanyahu is rewarded internally, the broader challenge of securing electoral victory remains a critical consideration for the party's future.