After opposition leader announces he has no plans to leave politics, presumed contenders for Likud leadership swiftly fall back in line behind him, except for Yuli Edelstein

The opposition leader is busy battening down the hatches, as former allies lay the groundwork to mount challenges for the party leadership

Opposition chief lashes out at New Likudniks, accuses them of being leftist infiltrators and posing 'danger' to Israel

Party accuses members of New Likudniks faction of being leftist infiltrators; Netanyahu slams Israel Katz, accuses him of supporting group in exchange for primary votes

Amid coalition uproar over remarks by Omer Barlev, PM touts settlements as vital to security, urges they be supported in 'words and actions'

Fellow minister Ayelet Shaked calls Omer Barlev 'confused' after he tells visiting American official he's working on problem, saying Palestinian violence is the real issue

While Edelstein plans to challenge former PM, both have an interest in holding the leadership contest sooner, rather than later, in a bid to deter other contenders

Former minister says he didn't ask anyone to stand up for him at heated party meeting where another MK slammed him, while the opposition leader remained silent

Opposition chair's silence as Likud MK tears into former minister indicates that longtime loyalist who became one of party's most popular figures being shown the door

Recordings aired by Channel 12 show frustrations within Netanyahu's party over MKs skipping votes, being forced to boycott committees, or having to vote against their own interests