Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud Party Loses Court Battle Against Ex-PM Naftali Bennett Over Campaign Ad

In a fresh political and legal setback ahead of Israel’s heated political season, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud Party has lost a court challenge against former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett over the use of an image featuring retired police official Ami Eshed in campaign-related material.

The dispute centered around a social media advertisement published by Bennett, who is preparing for a political comeback and is expected to contest upcoming elections. In the post, Bennett announced the appointment of retired Police Commissioner Ami Eshed as the person responsible for “election integrity” within his political camp.

The announcement included a photograph of Eshed from his time in active police service, showing him in official uniform while saluting.

Why Likud Filed the Petition

Netanyahu’s Likud Party argued that the campaign post violated Israel’s election propaganda laws. According to the petition, the use of a former senior police officer’s official image, police uniform, and public reputation in political campaigning amounted to the improper use of state-linked assets for election purposes.

The party specifically cited Section 2A of Israel’s Elections Law, which regulates campaign propaganda and the use of public resources during elections.

Likud requested the court to immediately remove the advertisement and impose financial penalties on Bennett and his political team.

Court Rejects Likud’s Claims

However, the court rejected the petition, ruling that no legal violation had occurred through the use of the image.

The judge stated that there was no sufficient basis to interfere with the candidates’ right to political expression and campaign communication. The ruling emphasized that freedom of political speech remains a central democratic principle, especially during election periods.

As part of the decision, the court also ordered Likud to pay legal expenses totaling 10,000 Shekels (approximately $3,450) to Bennett and his party.

Political Tensions Rising in Israel

The ruling comes at a time when Israel’s political atmosphere is becoming increasingly tense, with speculation growing around Naftali Bennett’s political return and possible electoral challenge to Netanyahu.

Bennett, who previously served as Israel’s Prime Minister, has recently increased his public appearances and political messaging, signaling a stronger re-entry into national politics. Meanwhile, Netanyahu’s Likud Party continues to defend its dominant position amid rising criticism and political competition.

Political analysts believe the court’s decision may give Bennett additional momentum, especially among voters focused on democratic institutions and election transparency.

Read Also : HPBOSE Class 10 Result 2026 Declared: Kangra’s Anmol Tops Himachal with 99.86%, Pass Percentage Reaches 83.87%