Likud Considers Former Footballer Eli Ohana for Reserved Spot in Upcoming Elections

The Likud party is exploring the possibility of offering Eli Ohana, a former football star and political commentator, a reserved high-ranking spot on its candidate list for the upcoming elections. Ohana, known for his association with right-wing politics in recent years, responded to the reports by stating he has no comment as no official approach has been made.

This is not Ohana's first political involvement; 11 years ago, he was offered a reserved spot on the Jewish Home party list led by Naftali Bennett, but the move sparked controversy and ultimately did not materialize. Meanwhile, the reserved spot initially considered for Tali Guaily, mother of the late Rani Guaily who was killed and whose body was taken to Gaza, appears to be off the table.

Likud is currently debating how to allocate its reserved spots on the list. Initially, eight were planned for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but this number has likely been reduced. Confirmed reserved spots include Gideon Sa'ar from New Hope, and two others held for Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir, as Netanyahu has not abandoned the idea of uniting them. Another reserved spot is expected for Eti Atiya, a close associate of the Likud chairman. Netanyahu reportedly has four reserved spots left to fill, though it remains unclear how these will be assigned, especially given the uncertain security situation and the possibility that Likud primaries may not take place.