Likud Party's 'Armored' Slot Vacated by Amir Aviv, Enabling MK's Entry

Amir Aviv, founder of the 'Bishonistim' movement and a former senior IDF officer, has relinquished his "armored" spot on the Likud party's Knesset list. Aviv announced his decision to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating he will instead serve as an external minister in the government. The primary reason for his withdrawal, Aviv explained, is to allow current Knesset Member (MK) Avichai Boaron to secure a place on the list. Boaron, who ran in the Likud primaries but did not secure a high enough position, will now be able to enter the Knesset due to Aviv's decision.

The announcement comes as the Likud secretariat finalized the list of "armored" candidates, individuals granted protected spots on the party's electoral slate. Prime Minister Netanyahu had initially designated six such candidates, including Elisha Medan, a reservist fighter severely injured in Gaza, and Talik Guili, mother of a fallen Border Police officer. Aviv, known for his public and security advocacy on the right, was slated to be one of these protected candidates.

Other "armored" candidates approved by Netanyahu include attorney David Peter, who has represented the government and the Prime Minister in High Court cases; businessman and TV personality Yaakov Bardugo; and former MK Eli Goldschmidt. The selection process was reportedly marked by prolonged tension within the party, with the Likud tribunal issuing an ultimatum for the list's publication.

Notably, Elisha Medan, who lost both his legs in combat in Beit Hanoun, was placed at number 11. Talik Guili, whose son was killed and body held by Hamas, was also included, with the Likud praising her "exceptional strength." Businessman Oren Dubronsky, initially slated for the 11th spot, withdrew, opting to serve as a minister for AI affairs instead of giving up his American citizenship.

Prime Minister Netanyahu is expected to hold a press conference to formally introduce the new "armored" candidates. Likud sources suggest Netanyahu deliberately delayed the final decision to maintain maximum flexibility in negotiations with potential candidates.