‘Very pleased’ Netanyahu hails Likud shake-up as some ministers pushed out

Likud's recent party primaries have significantly reshaped its parliamentary list, with several incumbent ministers and lawmakers pushed down the rankings, making their return to the Knesset unlikely. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed satisfaction, stating he was "very pleased with the results" and that the new list "reflects renewal and the integration of new forces." The updated lineup notably features seven Mizrahi candidates in the top 10 and lacks former IDF major generals or chiefs of staff. Prominent casualties include Agriculture Minister Avi Dichter and Environmental Protection Minister Idit Silman. Justice Minister Yariv Levin, who secured third place, interpreted his strong showing as an endorsement of his judicial reform agenda, stating, "A huge public demands the completion of the judicial reform."