Netanyahu Offers Former Golani Commander Chikko Tamir Spot on Likud List

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has offered retired Brigadier General Chikko Tamir a secured spot on the Likud party's list for the upcoming elections. The offer comes amid a perceived shortage of security experts within the party, following the departure of former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and the failure of former Shin Bet chief Avi Dichter to secure a high enough position in the Likud primaries.

Tamir, 62, a former commander of the Golani Brigade and the Gaza Division, is a prominent figure with extensive military experience. His potential inclusion is seen as an effort to bolster the Likud's security credentials.

This move is part of a broader strategy by Netanyahu and Religious Zionism party leader Bezalel Smotrich to consolidate the right-wing bloc. They are also pressuring Ofer Winter, a prominent figure associated with the "Am Israel" movement, to join forces. The proposed deal for Winter includes a high placement on Smotrich's list and two secured spots on the Likud list for individuals associated with him, Joseph Haddad and Flair Hassan Nahum.

However, Winter reiterated on Friday evening his intention not to merge with incumbent politicians, potentially complicating these consolidation efforts.