First Publication: While Racing in Likud - Hadar Mochtar Tried to Join Ben Gvir

Walla has learned that Hadar Mochtar, a candidate in the Likud primaries, simultaneously tried to explore the possibility of joining Itamar Ben Gvir's Otzma Yehudit list. The contacts were made quietly, while publicly she continues to position herself as part of the Likud. Mochtar does not meet the required membership period in Likud, and the possibility of running required shortening her membership or a special permit, but Netanyahu does not intend to approve it. The move sparked internal opposition, including criticism from MK Tally Gotliv.

Walla has learned today (Sunday) that Hadar Mochtar, who is running a campaign to integrate into the Likud list for the Knesset, simultaneously tried to explore the possibility of joining Itamar Ben Gvir's Otzma Yehudit list. The contacts were made quietly, while publicly Mochtar continues to position herself as part of the Likud and as someone who intends to compete for a place on its list. Mochtar does not meet the required membership period in Likud, so the possibility of running required shortening her membership or a special permit. In recent months, the possibility arose that Netanyahu would allow her to run, among other things in the 'new woman' slot, but the Prime Minister has no intention of approving the shortening. The move sparked internal opposition, including criticism from MK Tally Gotliv, who claimed that Mochtar is not suitable for the Likud list, while mentioning the apartment controversy that accompanied her in the 2022 elections. The future of the 'new woman' slot has been called into question in the discussions on the structure of the primaries.