The relationship between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Economy Minister Nir Barkat has deteriorated significantly, according to reports from the Times of Israel. The tension stems from allegations that Barkat sought to remove Netanyahu from power in the immediate aftermath of the October 7 Hamas-led attacks.

Observers characterize the current situation as a calculated political maneuver by Netanyahu to neutralize a potential internal rival. The Times of Israel frames the situation as a "political elimination," suggesting that Netanyahu’s actions are a direct response to perceived disloyalty. While the Prime Minister’s office has not issued a formal statement confirming a specific plan to remove Barkat, the report indicates that the Prime Minister is leveraging his political influence to marginalize the Economy Minister.

Barkat, who has previously been viewed as a contender for leadership within the Likud party, now faces a precarious position within the cabinet. The report suggests that Netanyahu’s approach is consistent with his historical tendency to respond aggressively to perceived threats to his authority. As of now, the extent of the impact on the current governing coalition remains unclear, though the rift underscores the fragile state of internal party dynamics during a period of national crisis.