Barkat prepared a 'putsch' — why Netanyahu doesn't fire him
Political commentator Amit Segal revealed details of the tense relations between Netanyahu and Economy Minister Nir Barkat. Segal claims that Barkat tried to organize a change of prime minister, but Netanyahu did not fire him due to coalition calculations, and later — because of Barkat's litigation fund.
Political commentator Amit Segal revealed new details of the tense relations between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Economy Minister Nir Barkat. According to Segal, in the first months after the October 7, 2023 attack, Barkat tried to organize a political move aimed at replacing the prime minister. Netanyahu was informed of this by Minister Haim Katz at the end of November 2023. Segal claims that Netanyahu broke up the forming group by using conversations to maintain loyalty, promotions, and appointing one of the rebels to a position abroad. When asked why Netanyahu did not fire Barkat, Segal replied that at the time the prime minister did not feel he had enough margin to give up one Knesset vote. Today, in the commentator's opinion, the reason may be related to Barkat's litigation fund, which finances lawsuits of people close to Netanyahu's circle. Segal also stated that Barkat met with ministers, lawmakers, and media representatives, trying to convince them that he was the one capable of leading the country. In conclusion, Segal suggested that Barkat challenge the information in court if he considers it false.