Netanyahu's Dream Team Collapses for Good | The Full List That Refused Likud

Likud tried to recruit senior figures, including security establishment officials and heroes of October 7, for reserved slots on its list, but faced a flat refusal. The star recruitment project is stalled, and all eyes are on the general marked as Netanyahu's current savior. Among those who refused: Avida Bachar, Gabi Ashkenazi, Yuval Steinitz, Ron Dermer, and Gal Hirsch. In Likud, they assess that Netanyahu wants to refresh the list and add figures who can appeal to more moderate audiences, especially against the backdrop of the party's declining support in polls and public criticism of some Knesset members identified with the party's blunt line. The goal is to present a broader, more statesmanlike list that could help Likud in the struggle for moderate right and center-right voters. As of now, despite the efforts, there has been no significant response from the prominent names mentioned. In Netanyahu's circle, they continue to examine additional options ahead of finalizing the list, but at this stage it can be cautiously said: there are searches – still no takers.