Netanyahu Taps Bereaved Mother and Wounded Reservist for Likud Knesset List

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has finalized his reserved spots on the Likud party's list for the 26th Knesset, notably including Talik Guili, the mother of fallen IDF soldier Rani Guili, and reservist Elisha Medad, who lost both his legs in Gaza. Guili became a public figure during her campaign to recover her son's body after he was killed fighting Hamas on October 7th. Medad, a reservist who was severely wounded in Gaza, will be placed at number 11, replacing tech entrepreneur Oren Dobronsky.

Guili's inclusion highlights her prominent role in advocating for the return of her son's remains, which were eventually repatriated. The Likud stated that Guili and her family displayed "extraordinary strength" and "unbroken determination" throughout their ordeal, emphasizing her efforts to share her son's story of heroism and patriotism. Medad, who also lit a torch on Independence Day for rehabilitation and recovery, is recognized for his resilience and commitment to Israel.

The finalization of these spots followed a protracted internal struggle within Likud over Netanyahu's reserved allocations. Several party members, including MK David Bitan, had opposed granting Netanyahu too many reserved spots, arguing they displaced candidates elected in primaries. Netanyahu had sought flexibility to refresh the party's roster and potentially accommodate political alliances, though a planned alliance with Ofer Vinter did not materialize.

Adding to the list's drama, Oren Dobronsky, initially offered a spot in the top ten and a ministerial role focused on artificial intelligence, withdrew his candidacy shortly before the deadline. Dobronsky cited a preference for a professional ministerial role over a Knesset seat, though speculation also pointed to issues with his dual American citizenship.

The internal disputes extended to a legal challenge by MK Bitan regarding the timing and transparency of the reserved list announcements. While the Likud's internal tribunal did not invalidate the reserved spots, it demanded timely disclosure to allow members adequate review time. The tribunal also rejected a bid to reconsider the placement of Defense Minister Israel Katz, whose spot was already confirmed.