Likud Finalizes Knesset List With Reserved Spots Amid Internal Criticism

The Likud party has finalized its list of reserved Knesset seats, announcing the placements of several prominent figures after extensive deliberations. Among those securing spots are Talik Guili at number 9, Yaakov Bardugo at 11, Elisha Medan at 15, David Peter at 16, Eli Goldschmidt at 26, Itzik Bonzel at 29, and Amir Aviv at 35. The selections aim to integrate individuals from the security, legal, public, and media sectors into the party's parliamentary slate.

Talik Guili, whose son fell on October 7 and whose body was abducted to Gaza, was chosen after becoming a public figure through her advocacy and lighting a torch on Independence Day. Yaakov Bardugo, a commentator and presenter for Channel 14, was placed at 11 following discussions about utilizing reserved slots from the agreement with the "New Hope" party. Elisha Medan, a reservist who lost both legs in Gaza combat, was placed at 15, becoming a symbol for wounded soldiers. Attorney David Peter, a legal commentator known for his conservative stance, secured the 16th position. Former MK Eli Goldschmidt, previously associated with the Labor party, surprisingly joined Likud at 26.

Itzik Bonzel, father of fallen paratrooper Amit Bonzel and a panelist on Channel 14, was placed at 29. He advocates for continued fighting against Hamas. The list of reserved spots concludes with Brigadier General (Res.) Amir Aviv, founder of the "Habitachonistim" movement and a former senior officer, at number 35. Aviv has held numerous high-ranking positions within the IDF and the Ministry of Defense.

However, the final list has sparked internal dissent within Likud. Some party members are reportedly angered because the announced placements do not align with the reserved spots previously promised to the Prime Minister in the party's agreement and central committee elections. These promised slots were reportedly numbers 3, 5, 9, 11, 15, 18, 26, and 29.