Netanyahu is working behind the scenes to secure reserved Knesset positions for two figures who have become closely aligned with his political interests: media personality Kineret Barashi and Yitzhak Bonzel, father of fallen soldier Staff Sergeant Amit Bonzel.
A Likud party source confirmed Wednesday that negotiations are at an advanced stage, though nothing is final yet. The source said Netanyahu is close to locking in reserved spots for both, a move that would bypass the primary process and guarantee them safe placements on the party's Knesset slate.
The timing matters. Both names have circulated in recent months as potential candidates, but a Likud source said the idea of reserving specific positions for them became more concrete after the party's primary elections wrapped up. In Israeli politics, party leaders routinely reserve certain list positions for candidates they want to ensure make it to the Knesset, sidestepping the democratic primary process entirely.
Barashi has become a visible figure in Netanyahu's corner over the past few years, particularly through her media work defending him against legal challenges. She hosts what she calls "The Open Studio" and has cultivated strong support among segments of Likud's base. Polls among party members have consistently ranked her highly, suggesting she'd likely make the list anyway. But a reserved spot removes any uncertainty.
Bonzel's story is different. Since his son was killed in Gaza, he's emerged as one of the most prominent voices among bereaved families on the right. He's built a public profile as someone who supports Netanyahu's approach to the war and security issues. The two men have a long history; Netanyahu consults with him regularly and they meet frequently.
When Bonzel's name first came up as a possible reserved candidate last June, he responded with a line that stuck: "My reserved spot is in Section D at Mount Herzl", referring to the military cemetery where his son is buried. The comment suggested he wasn't interested in political opportunism off his grief.
But apparently, negotiations have shifted. The Likud source says Netanyahu is now actively advancing reserved positions for both Barashi and Bonzel, with the process nearing completion.
Likud officials are cautious about declaring anything done. Until Netanyahu makes an official call and negotiations wrap, they say, anything can still change. Positions, placements, all of it remains fluid.
Bonzel, Barashi, and the Likud did not comment.
