This archive report was first published on 27 December 2019.
Netanyahu Rebuffs a Challenge From Within, Despite Graft Charges ¶
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emerged victorious in a crucial leadership challenge within the conservative Likud party, securing a landslide victory in a party primary on Thursday, December 26, 2019.
Netanyahu, who has been indicted on corruption charges, won the contest with 72.5 percent of the vote, leaving his rival, Gideon Saar, with 27.5 percent.
Netanyahu's victory has been seen as a crucial win for the Prime Minister, who has been facing a yearlong political standoff in Israel. The win has also given a boost to his campaign for the country's next general election in March 2020.
However, the victory has also ensured that one of Israel's most polarizing issues will be on the ballot in the upcoming election: Netanyahu himself.
Israel has already had two inconclusive elections this year, with voters nearly evenly divided on whether the corruption cases against Netanyahu should disqualify him from serving a fourth consecutive term.
Netanyahu's victory has been seen as a significant win for the Prime Minister, who has been facing a yearlong political standoff in Israel. The win has also given a boost to his campaign for the country's next general election in March 2020.
Netanyahu's campaign for the election has been marked by controversy, with the Prime Minister facing corruption charges and allegations of trading official favors for lavish gifts and positive news coverage.
Despite the controversy, Netanyahu has maintained his popularity within the Likud party, with supporters chanting 'Bibi, King of Israel' at his rallies.
Netanyahu's victory has been seen as a significant win for the Prime Minister, who has been facing a yearlong political standoff in Israel. The win has also given a boost to his campaign for the country's next general election in March 2020.
