Likud Party Finalizes Knesset List with New Recruits

On the final day for submitting party lists for the upcoming Knesset elections, the Likud party announced its newly reserved spots, including several prominent figures. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sought to bolster the party's appeal with individuals who supported the government over the past four years, some of whom were impacted by the October 7th war, alongside public figures frequently appearing on Channel 14 and echoing Likud's messages.

Among the new additions are Tali Guili, placed at number 9, who became a public figure after her son fell in the October 7th war and his body was returned to Israel. Yaakov Bardugo, a lawyer, political commentator, and host on Channel 14 and Radio Galey Israel, is placed at number 11. Elisha Medan, who lost both legs during operational activity in Gaza and underwent extensive rehabilitation, is at number 15. Lawyer David Peter, who represented the government in High Court petitions, is at number 16.

Other reserved spots include Eli Goldschmidt, a former MK for the Labor party who now identifies as having "awakened" from left-wing views and frequently appears on Channel 14, at number 26. Itzik Bunzel, a lawyer and bereaved father who has been critical of anti-government protesters, is at number 29. Amir Aviv, chairman of the "Bistunim" movement and former deputy ombudsman for the defense establishment, is at number 35.

These additions conclude the reserved list for Likud, following previously secured spots for ministers Israel Katz, Gideon Sa'ar, and Haim Katz. Netanyahu had reportedly approached over ten public figures for these reserved slots, facing some internal party opposition. Oren Dobronsky, initially offered a spot, withdrew his candidacy to retain his American citizenship, expressing interest in a professional ministerial role focused on artificial intelligence.

Netanyahu engaged in numerous discussions with potential candidates, including popular mayors, former ministers, and figures like Avida Bachar, whose family was murdered on October 7th and who has since shifted his political views. Tali Guili, now placed at number 9, had reportedly previously refused a reserved spot.