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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, leader of the Likud Party, is said to be pushing for a snap party leadership contest in early 2016.

Channel Two reported recently that Netanyahu had discussed the possibility with senior Likud figures including Tourism Minister Yariv Levin and Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan. Likud Party regulations state that a leadership contest must be held six months prior to a general election. However, an early vote would potentially catch Netanyahu’s opponents off guard and effectively ensure victory and another term heading the party. Netanyahu advanced the Likud leadership contest following both the 2009 and 2011 general elections.

Transportation Minister Israel Katz, a potential leadership opponent told Ynet news that, “This is not the time for political moves that can make the [security] situation harder and upset the political stability in Israel.” Meanwhile, former-minister Gideon Saar, a popular Likud figure, who is having a break from political life, but is widely assumed to be planning a return criticised the government over the weekend as “all talk” in handling the current wave of terror.

This morning, another potential rival to Netanyahu, Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat announced that he is joining Likud. Barkat will continue in his current role, where he has always served as an independent, while being a vocal supporter of Likud. He said that he is joining Likud to bring “fresh blood and new energy to strengthen the leadership.”

The Likud Central Committee will meet on 29 December, to select a new chairman of the powerful body. It has been suggested that in addition to choosing between MKs Tzachi Hanegbi, David Amsalem and Haim Katz for the role, members will also vote on advancing the party leadership contest.

Meanwhile, the Ministerial Committee for Legislation this week approved legislation which would forbid businesses, including shops from opening on the Jewish Sabbath. Places of entertainment could remain open, but the bill would represent a departure from the status quo which allows local authorities to determine such activity.