Netanyahu secures control over key Likud primary spots

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secured the right to choose candidates for nine top spots on the Likud Party list this week ^[1].

The move ensures Netanyahu maintains direct influence over the party's leadership hierarchy ahead of the upcoming Knesset elections. By controlling these key positions, the prime minister can insulate his inner circle from the unpredictability of a general primary vote.

The victory follows a legal struggle within the party. Netanyahu initially attempted to cancel the Likud Party primary entirely ^[2]. However, the Likud internal court overturned that bid on Sunday ^[2].

Following the court ruling, Netanyahu shifted his strategy to secure specific appointments. On Monday, the Likud Central Committee met and approved all of his requests ^[3]. This compromise allows the primary to proceed while granting the prime minister authority over the most influential slots on the list ^[1].

Analysts suggest the maneuver is a calculated effort to prevent internal rivals from gaining leverage. The prime minister's ability to hand-pick these candidates removes a significant layer of democratic competition within the party's internal structure ^[1].

"Netanyahu is asserting his dominance over his political kingdom," Esther Solomon said ^[1].

The final list will determine which candidates are most likely to enter the Knesset based on the party's overall performance in the general election. With nine spots under his direct control ^[1], Netanyahu has effectively neutralized potential challenges to his authority from within his own ranks.