War Hero Elisha Medan Joins Likud Party List

The Likud party has welcomed several new candidates to its Knesset list, including Elisha Medan, a decorated war hero. Medan lost both legs in Gaza when a mine detonated while he was inspecting a building above a Hamas tunnel, an explosion that also killed four of his comrades. Despite his severe injuries, the 46-year-old reservist has embraced rehabilitation, learning to use prosthetics and engaging in public speaking, particularly with new army recruits.

Likud described Medan's rehabilitation journey as a symbol of resilience and determination, stating that his personal story embodies the spirit of Israeli soldiers and the nation's capacity to overcome adversity. Medan previously lit a torch on Israel's Independence Day. His inclusion on the Likud list has been met with enthusiasm from right-wing politicians.

Energy Minister Eli Cohen welcomed Medan, calling him "Israel's hero" and wishing him welcome to Likud. Almog Cohen, a Member of Knesset for the Religious Zionism party, also greeted Medan, hailing him as a symbol of revival and a generation of warriors. He pledged that he and Medan would work together in the Knesset to address the needs of wounded soldiers.

Medan has been placed in the 15th position on the Likud list. Other notable additions to the list include Talik Gvili, mother of a fallen special forces officer, at 9th place; journalist Yaakov Bardugo at 11th; attorney David Peter at 16th; former MK Eli Goldschmidt at 26th; and Yitzhak Bunzel, father of a fallen paratrooper, at 29th. These placements are part of the party's "presidential reserve" slots, intended to bring in new faces and individuals with significant public profiles or personal stories.

The article also lists the full Likud slate up to the 35th position, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the top.