Senior Likud member orchestrated a primary deal: without Gottlieb - but with Barkat and Bitan
Netivot Mayor Yechiel Zohar published for his supporters his preferred candidates in the Likud list elections for the Knesset. Despite MK Bitan's struggle against Netanyahu within the party, he is included in the 'strong man's' list. Barkat, whose chances of being elected to a realistic spot have decreased, is also included | First publication
The Likud primaries taking place today (Monday) represent the peak of recent internal party intrigues. Ahead of the vote, one of the most powerful figures in Likud, Netivot Mayor Yechiel Zohar, who commands the support of thousands of registered members, published his voting list—the deal he is orchestrating.
The preferred candidates on Yechiel Zohar's list:
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Amir Ohana
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David Bitan
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Dudi Amsalem
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Nir Barkat
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Gila Gamliel
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Miki Zohar
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Eli Cohen
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Ofir Katz
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Yariv Levin
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Miri Regev
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Shlomo Karhi
Several other candidates who will receive support include MKs and ministers Shalom Danino, Zeev Elkin, Sasson Guetta, Avi Dichter, Almog Cohen, Hanoch Milwidsky, Idit Silman, Keti Shitrit, and Minister Amichai Chikli.
Notably, MK Tally Gottlieb is excluded from the deal, though this was not due to a request from Netanyahu. Conversely, the list includes David Bitan, who clashed with the Prime Minister prior to the primaries, and Nir Barkat, whose failed 'putsch' attempt has become a significant obstacle for him.
