Wounded IDF Reservist Eliyahu Medan Joins Netanyahu's Likud Party List

Eliyahu Medan, a decorated IDF reservist who lost both legs in combat in Gaza and later lit a torch at Israel's Independence Day ceremony, has been officially added to the Likud party's list for the upcoming 26th Knesset. The announcement came Tuesday, just hours before the deadline for submitting party lists to the Central Elections Committee, concluding a period of intense internal speculation and maneuvering within the Likud regarding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's reserved slots.

Medan, a co-founder of the Avigail settlement in the Hebron region, sustained his severe injuries during an operation in Beit Hanoun, northern Gaza, when an explosive device detonated, killing four other soldiers and wounding six more. Following his critical injury, he underwent extensive rehabilitation and became a public figure advocating for social cohesion and unity.

His recovery journey and public advocacy led to his selection to light the "Healing and Rehabilitation" torch at the 77th Independence Day ceremony. Transportation Minister Miri Regev highlighted Medan's inspiring message of Israeli societal unity and his evolving perspectives after fighting alongside soldiers from across the political spectrum.

Medan's inclusion marks the end of a tumultuous period for the Likud, characterized by internal disputes over Netanyahu's reserved list positions. These conflicts involved challenges from MK David Bitan and reached the Likud's internal court, which approved the reserved slots for senior party figures like Gideon Sa'ar, Yisrael Katz, and Haim Katz.

Further drama unfolded as businessman Oren Dobronsky, initially offered a top-ten spot and a ministerial role focused on artificial intelligence, ultimately declined to run for Knesset, opting instead for a future professional ministerial appointment. This decision created a last-minute vacancy on Netanyahu's list, paving the way for Medan's selection.