What You Need to Know
• Israel’s governing Likud Party will hold primaries on Monday for candidates in the upcoming general election.
• The primaries are expected to be highly contentious, impacting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Likud Party’s future.
• Likud has historically shifted Israeli politics to the right since Menachem Begin became prime minister in 1977.
Israel’s governing Likud Party, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is set to conduct primaries on Monday to select candidates for the upcoming general election. This election is anticipated to be particularly significant for both Netanyahu and the Likud Party, as the primaries are known for their intensity and disorder. The Likud Party has played a crucial role in reshaping Israeli politics since Menachem Begin’s leadership began in 1977, breaking the Labor Party’s dominance. Over the years, Likud-led governments have engaged in major military operations and have taken a controversial stance on Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, often opposing international law. The outcome of these primaries could influence the party’s direction and its approach to ongoing political challenges.
Why It Matters
The Likud Party’s primaries are significant as they will determine the candidates who will represent the party in the legislative elections. Historically, Likud has been instrumental in shifting the political landscape of Israel towards the right, impacting policies related to military actions and settlements. The party’s stance on the two-state solution has also faced widespread opposition within Israel, particularly during Benjamin Netanyahu’s long tenure. Understanding the dynamics of these primaries is essential, as they may shape the future of Israeli governance and its approach to critical issues.
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