Netanyahu Unveils Reserved List for Likud Ahead of Election Deadline

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has begun revealing his party's reserved list for the upcoming elections, just hours before the final deadline for submitting candidate slates. The announcements follow Netanyahu's disregard for an ultimatum demanding the list be published the previous day.

Among the notable additions is Elisha Medan, a reservist combatant and co-founder of the Avigail settlement in the Hebron Hills. Medan sustained life-threatening injuries and lost both legs during operational activity in Beit Hanoun, Gaza, where four comrades were killed. The Likud party stated that Medan's recovery symbolizes strength and resilience, embodying the spirit of Israeli soldiers and the nation's ability to rebuild.

Talik Guili, mother of fallen soldier Rani Guili, who was abducted and later returned from Gaza, is also placed on the reserved list. The party highlighted her extraordinary strength and unwavering faith throughout her ordeal, emphasizing her role in honoring her son's memory and promoting his Zionist values.

Other reserved candidates include Yaakov Bardugo, a media personality and former director-general of the Center for Local Government; attorney David Peter, who has represented Netanyahu in legal matters; retired Brigadier General Amir Avivi, founder of the "Habitachonistim" movement; former Knesset Member Eli Goldschmidt, who has shifted his political and security views to align with Netanyahu; and Itzik Bonzel, father of fallen soldier Amit Bonzel.

Businessman Oren Dobronsky, initially offered a top-ten spot and a ministerial role focused on AI, relinquished his reserved position. He stated his preference to serve as a professional minister, working alongside Netanyahu to advance Israel's AI capabilities, rather than as a Knesset member.

Previously announced reserved candidates include Foreign Minister Gidon Saar, Defense Minister Israel Katz, and party center chairman Haim Katz. The latter's reservation faced internal criticism but was ultimately approved by the party tribunal.