Likud Committee Grants Benjamin Netanyahu Control Over Party List

The Likud Central Committee approved a proposal on July 27, 2026, granting Benjamin Netanyahu the authority to determine eight slots within the first 30 positions of the party's Knesset list. The decision followed a vote with a 72% turnout and marks a significant expansion of the Prime Minister's control over internal selections ahead of primaries scheduled for August 17.

Netanyahu is expected to use these reserved slots to elevate candidates favored by the party base or secure seats for political allies. The move follows months of negotiations and previous failed attempts by Netanyahu to replace the primary system entirely with an appointed committee. This expansion of power occurs as Likud prepares for general elections on October 27, with current polling suggesting the party may win only 25 seats.

The decision sparked internal tension within the party. Member of the Knesset David Bitan and MK Tally Gotliv led opposition to the plan, arguing that it marginalizes incumbent legislators. Conversely, several ministers, including Miri Regev, released videos supporting the changes. The approval follows a separate ruling by Likud's internal court, which rejected a provision that would have allowed the party to cancel primaries during security escalations.