Bereaved Mother Joins Likud, Faces Political Attacks

Tali Guili, mother of fallen soldier Ran Guili, has entered the political arena by joining the Likud party's Knesset list. In a personal letter, Yossi Ahimeir warned Guili of impending slander and ridicule from left-wing elements, expressing confidence in her ability to withstand it.

Ahimeir stated that joining the Likud, a right-wing party, would inevitably make her a target for criticism, contrasting it with the positive reception she might have received had she joined a left-leaning party. He noted that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is accustomed to severe and relentless attacks, which he described as unprecedented in their intensity and aimed at his downfall.

Ahimeir assured Guili that she, like other Likud members, would face increasing criticism in the coming month, though he suggested her status as the mother of a fallen hero might elicit preemptive apologies. He recalled her dignified and strong presence at her son's funeral and praised her courage, wisdom, and forward-looking concern for the nation's security, believing this aligns with her son's sacrifice.

He emphasized that Guili's political choice was not for personal gain but to contribute to national security, opposing concessions to enemies and external pressures. Ahimeir positioned Netanyahu, despite his imperfections, as a superior leader compared to potential successors who might lead to dangerous retreats or the establishment of a Palestinian state.

Ahimeir concluded by acknowledging that Guili's personal grief would remain, but her entry into politics signifies her commitment to the right-wing's vision for Israel's future and its ongoing struggles. He expressed hope that she would become a prominent Knesset member who fosters unity and bridges divides between political rivals, leading to a more respectful democratic discourse.