IDF Reserve Major Joins Religious Zionism Party Ahead of Elections

Major (res.) Itamar Itam, a decorated reserve battalion commander and a disabled IDF veteran, has joined the Religious Zionism party list for the upcoming 26th Knesset elections. Party chairman and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced the addition on Tuesday, highlighting Itam's military service and resilience.

Itam, who was severely wounded by sniper fire in the Gaza Strip during the recent conflict, returned to command his soldiers after recovering. He has served nearly 700 days in reserve duty since the October 7th attacks, leading his unit in battles in Gaza and Lebanon. He is also a co-founder of the "Reservists - Victory Generation" movement and a leader of the "War Wounded for Victory" movement.

Itam, a father of six and an educator, is the son of former minister and Mafdal chairman, Brig. Gen. (res.) Effie Eitam. His entry into politics is part of Smotrich's efforts to finalize the Religious Zionism party's slate for the next Knesset.

Smotrich welcomed Itam, stating he represents "the wonderful victory generation of the people of Israel" and will bring "a spirit of heroism and decisiveness" to public life. Itam expressed his desire to continue his mission in the public sphere, focusing on strengthening reservists and soldiers, national security, settlement expansion, and education.