Nir Barkat Faces Investigation Over Likud Primary Campaign Funding
Economy Minister Nir Barkat faces potential fines after self-funding his Likud primary campaign with 730,000 shekels, nearly double the legal spending cap.
Nir Barkat Under Scrutiny Over Likud Primary Campaign Funding
Following the recent Likud primaries, candidates have begun submitting their financial disclosures to the State Comptroller. An analysis of the data reveals that total donations within the Likud party stand at approximately 1.3 million shekels, compared to 4.2 million shekels in The Democrats, where a large number of non-MK candidates receive no state expense reimbursements. Economy Minister Nir Barkat leads the fundraising volume, yet his reported "donations"—amounting to roughly 730,000 shekels—came entirely from his own pocket.
Barkat finished 15th in the nationwide primary vote with about 23,000 ballots, placing him 24th on the Likud electoral list. As a serving member of the Knesset, Barkat is entitled to a state expense reimbursement of 380,000 shekels, which also serves as the legal ceiling for permitted campaign expenses and revenues. While Barkat insists he does not use public funds for his campaign, his self-funded contribution is nearly double the legal limit. Officials at the State Comptroller's Office confirmed the matter will be investigated, and Barkat could face fines for breaching the cap. During previous primaries, the Comptroller fined him 50,000 shekels for exceeding spending limits by roughly 70%.
Political Tensions and Campaign Fallout
Sources close to the minister emphasize that the final campaign expense report has not yet been submitted, meaning the preliminary disclosures do not necessarily reflect actual spending. Barkat's primary campaign was overshadowed by an intense political crisis following reports of an alleged attempt to depose Benjamin Netanyahu after October 7. Insiders claimed Barkat and Yuli Edelstein led a mutiny, generating severe tension ahead of the internal vote. Barkat retaliated by launching a campaign denouncing what he termed a political assassination attempt by Channel 12 and reporter Guy Peleg.
"I thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for the support against Channel 12's attempt to eliminate me in the primaries," Barkat stated following the August 18, 2026, primary results, which saw Benjamin Netanyahu secure a total victory while Barkat absorbed a heavy blow.
Meanwhile, other candidates also reported significant contributions. Efi Naveh ranked fifth in donations, including support from his brother Tzvika Naveh and businessman Kidan Dahari, eventually securing the 36th spot on the Likud list. The State Comptroller's Office reiterated that contribution and spending caps are designed to ensure fair competition among all candidates.
