Netanyahu Reshapes Likud Party List with New Recruits

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is finalizing the Likud party's Knesset list for the upcoming elections by incorporating several new figures. Among the latest additions are retired Brigadier General Amir Avivi, founder of the "Bishvilei Israel" (For Israel's Sake) movement, Talik Guili, mother of fallen soldier Rani Guili, reservist fighter Elisha Medan, and attorney David Peter. These individuals are expected to bring perspectives on war, rehabilitation, security decision-making, and a conservative legal stance to the party's leadership.

Talik Guili, a torchbearer at Israel's Independence Day ceremony, became a public figure after her son Rani was killed on October 7th and his body was held by Hamas before being returned. Elisha Medan, a reservist who lost both legs in combat in Gaza, is a co-founder of the community of Avigail in the Hebron Hills and also a torchbearer, representing resilience and recovery.

Attorney David Peter is known for his criticism of judicial activism and the state prosecution service, aligning with a conservative legal approach. Retired Brigadier General Amir Avivi, a former senior officer and founder of the "Bishvilei Israel" movement, joins with a focus on decisive security policy, a stance that Netanyahu's office stated aligns with the Prime Minister's own security outlook.

The process of filling these reserved spots was not without challenges, including previous refusals from potential candidates and internal party disputes. Tech entrepreneur Oren Dobronsky, initially offered a top spot to serve as AI minister, declined a Knesset seat, opting for a professional role instead, which freed up a position for Medan. Other reserved spots were previously allocated to Gideon Sa'ar, Haim Katz, and a special slot for Yisrael Katz, with debates arising over how these slots are counted against Netanyahu's reserved positions, impacting the placement of candidates elected in the primaries.