Likud Panel Approves Eight Netanyahu Slots as Bitan Walks Out

Likud's Constitution Committee approved by a large majority a framework granting party leader Benjamin Netanyahu eight reserved candidates on its Knesset slate. Prime Minister Netanyahu attended the meeting, where MK David Bitan opposed the plan, exchanged sharp words with him and walked out before the vote. The framework also lets the party leader adjust district and reserved placements around positions 29 through 33, and it still requires Likud Central Committee approval on Thursday. The rescheduled party primary is set for August 17.