"It's clear why he can't compete": Katz knew, but kept up the primary atmosphere until the end

Defense Minister Israel Katz knew about the possible slot on the Likud list about two weeks ago, but continued his primary campaign activities until the last moment. Senior Likud officials attacked him for his conduct, including leaving a cabinet meeting for a wedding and publicized confrontations. After the official announcement, Katz ordered a halt to political activity and expects to be placed in the top five.

Turbulent hours are passing over the Likud party ahead of the primaries scheduled for next Monday. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu decided to secure Defense Minister Israel Katz a spot on the party's list, in a secret process before the Likud court. The request was filed citing an exceptional security situation that cannot be detailed. However, the question arises: why did Katz, who knew about the possible slot about two weeks ago, continue to operate in a primary atmosphere? He attended private events of activists, held meetings in his office, and released viral web videos. Senior Likud officials attacked him harshly, saying it is clear why he cannot compete in the primaries, and that polls show a grim result. Katz feared being left with nothing, so he continued his activities until he received a message from Netanyahu's office in the middle of the night, when he ordered a halt to political activity. He expects to be placed in the top five.