Netanyahu unveils Likud reserved candidates hours before election deadline

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu began unveiling the candidates selected for reserved positions on the Likud electoral slate on Tuesday morning, just hours before the deadline for parties to submit their final lists.

The names were released after Netanyahu failed to meet an ultimatum calling on him to announce the candidates by Monday.

Elisha Medan — No. 15

The first candidate announced was Elisha Medan, an IDF reservist and one of the founders of the Avigail community in the South Hebron Hills.

Medan was critically wounded during an operation in Beit Hanoun in the northern Gaza Strip, losing both legs. Four of his fellow soldiers were killed in the same incident.

“Elisha’s long rehabilitation has become a symbol of strength, determination and faith in life,” Likud said in a statement. “Despite his severe injuries and the heavy personal price he has paid, Elisha chose to look ahead, remain active, strengthen others and offer hope to many Israelis.

“His story reflects the spirit of Israel’s soldiers and Israeli society’s ability to withstand the greatest challenges, recover and continue building.”

The party described Medan as “a torchbearer for healing and rehabilitation” and noted the awards he has received for his courage and public service.

“He embodies dedication, responsibility, love of the land and comradeship,” the statement added. “His journey from the battlefield to rehabilitation is a living testament to the Israeli spirit.”

Talik Gvili — No. 9

Another reserved position was awarded to Talik Gvili, the mother of Yamam officer Master Sgt. Ran Gvili, who was killed on October 7 and whose body was taken to the Gaza Strip.

Ran was the first hostage taken into Gaza and the last to be returned to Israel. His remains were recovered in Operation Brave Heart, a special mission carried out by the IDF and other security forces.

“Throughout this journey, Talik and the Gvili family demonstrated extraordinary strength, deep faith and unwavering determination, even in the most difficult moments,” Likud said.

“Talik proudly preserved Ran’s memory and shared the story of his bravery, his love for the country and his Zionist values. She touched the hearts of Israelis and people around the world. Talik is a symbol of strength, devotion and commitment to the State of Israel, transforming her personal story into an inspiring public mission.”

Yaakov Bardugo — No. 11

Political commentator Yaakov Bardugo was selected for the 11th position.

Bardugo is a presenter and commentator for Channel 14 and Radio Galei Israel. He previously worked as a political commentator and current-affairs presenter for Army Radio.

A lawyer and businessman, Bardugo has also served as director-general of Israel’s Federation of Local Authorities and as chief executive of the national lottery, Mifal HaPais.

David Peter — No. 16

Attorney David Peter, who has represented Netanyahu and the government in legal proceedings, was awarded the 16th position.

Peter holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in law from Bar-Ilan University and is currently pursuing a doctorate.

Amir Avivi — No. 35

Brig. Gen. (res.) Amir Avivi, founder of the Israel Defense and Security Forum, known as Habithonistim, received the 35th position.

During his military career, Avivi served in several senior roles, including deputy comptroller of the defense establishment, aide-de-camp to the IDF chief of staff and deputy commander of the Gaza Division.

He also commanded the Sagi Brigade, the 605th Combat Engineering Battalion and the IDF’s Combat Engineering School.

Eli Goldschmidt — No. 26

Former Labor lawmaker Eli Goldschmidt was selected for the 26th position.

Goldschmidt previously chaired the Labor faction in the Knesset. According to Likud, years of living near the Gaza border and the events of October 7 led him to reassess his political views.

“He changed his political and security positions and now supports Netanyahu, Likud and the national camp,” the party said.

Itzik Bonzel — No. 29

Itzik Bonzel , the father of fallen IDF Staff Sgt. Amit Bonzel, received the 29th position.

Amit served as a soldier and commander in the Paratroopers Reconnaissance Unit and was killed in combat in the Gaza Strip.

On the morning after the October 7 attacks, Bonzel's sons Amit and Nadav—both soldiers and commanders in the unit—reported for duty. Amit was killed in battle 60 days later.

Oren Dobronsky - reserved position

Businessman Oren Dobronsky, who joined Likud last month as its first reserved candidate, announced overnight that he was giving up his place on the electoral slate.

“Two months ago, the prime minister asked me to join the Likud team ahead of the election, and that remains the plan,” Dobronsky said.

“The prime minister offered me the position of minister for artificial intelligence affairs and a reserved place among the top 10 candidates. However, I preferred to serve solely as a professional minister, where my experience can make the greatest contribution, rather than serve as a member of the Knesset. That is what we agreed.”

Dobronsky said he intends to work closely with Netanyahu and the Likud team “to ensure that the State of Israel becomes an AI powerhouse.”

Last month, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, Defense Minister Israel Katz and Likud Central Committee Chairman Haim Katz were also reported to have received reserved positions.

Some party officials criticized the decision to reserve a place for Haim Katz, accusing him of pressuring Netanyahu to secure the position. Likud’s internal court subsequently approved his placement.