Netanyahu Taps New Knesset Candidates, Including War Hero and Media Commentator

The Likud party announced seven new "armored" candidates for its Knesset list on Tuesday, individuals slated for prominent positions on the party's slate. Among them are Yaakov Bardugo, a Channel 14 commentator who will be placed at number 11, and Elisha Medan, a reserve combat soldier and co-founder of the Avigail settlement in the Hebron Hills. Medan was severely wounded in Gaza, losing both legs, and is being recognized for his resilience.

Also joining the list is Talik Guili, mother of fallen Border Police officer Ran Guili, who was killed on October 7th and was the last hostage returned from Gaza. Lawyer David Peter, formerly a researcher at the Kohelet Forum and government representative in the High Court of Justice, is also included. Former Brigadier General Amir Aviv, founder of the "Bithonistim" movement, was initially slated but later relinquished his spot, with MK Avichai Boaron to take his place. Former Labor MK Eli Goldschmidt, who has shifted his political views, and Itzik Bonzel, father of fallen soldier Amit Bonzel, round out the new additions.

Bardugo has reportedly received a non-public commitment from Prime Minister Netanyahu for the role of Justice Minister or another senior ministerial position. Bonzel had previously stated he would not vote for Likud if Goldschmidt was included on the list, citing a significant political disagreement. The Likud party provided detailed biographies for each candidate, highlighting their backgrounds, military service, personal sacrifices, and public contributions.

Amir Aviv's place will be taken by Avichai Boaron, with Aviv expected to serve as an external minister. Oren Dobronsky, a tech entrepreneur previously offered a spot, has opted to serve only as a professional minister, focusing on AI policy, rather than as a Knesset member on the list.

The Likud party's internal tribunal had ordered Netanyahu to submit his list of armored candidates within two hours, or face a secret ballot. Netanyahu announced he would submit the list on Tuesday morning. Reports also indicated Netanyahu was considering last-minute additions, including some who failed in the primaries, due to rejections from individuals he had approached.