Benjamin Netanyahu challenged over alleged fake vote and recruitment law promises in Likud

The Likud internal court is examining claims that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's vote in the party's recent leadership election was fabricated. Petitioners argue that official records show Netanyahu voted, yet he was reportedly in the United States at the time the polls opened. The party maintains the vote was cast on a special ballot provided for security reasons and rejects the allegations as "fake news."

At the same time, Likud member Gila Ardan publicly rebuked Netanyahu's recent pledges to pass a full‑conscription law and to form a broad national government after the election. Ardan said the party will not accept any more promises on recruitment or unity, noting that Netanyahu himself admitted the temporary conscription law failed to achieve its goals. The criticism comes as Ardan is expected to launch a new political party later this week, potentially drawing other MKs.