Netanyahu's first reserved spot in Likud: Businessman Oren Dobronsky

The Likud party announced this evening (Monday) the first reserved spot by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the list for the upcoming elections: businessman Oren Dobronsky, known to the general public primarily from the television program "The Sharks". His position on the list will be published after the primaries, but he is expected to be placed in a high spot.

"The Likud movement welcomes Oren Dobronsky as the party's first reserved candidate. Oren is a successful businessman, one of the founders of high-tech in Israel, and a right-wing individual," the statement read. "Dobronsky is joining the Likud team and, after the elections, will lead the artificial intelligence sector across the economy, education, medicine, finance, and all branches of the state."

During his meeting with Benjamin Netanyahu, Dobronsky stated:

"I am here. I am stepping up to the plate and coming to do what is necessary."

The Prime Minister replied:

"Oren, welcome. I am truly excited about this, as we are gaining not just 'power,' but an addition of initiative, understanding, and experience. We have established the National Headquarters for Artificial Intelligence, which will also deal with quantum technologies. We have an opportunity here to create global alliances, and with God's help, we will succeed."

In recent weeks, Benjamin Netanyahu has conducted a significant effort to secure his right to reserve candidates on the list, both to create a balanced roster and to allow for bloc arrangements at a later stage. According to the deal reached with Minister Haim Katz, chairman of the Likud center, Netanyahu will receive 8 reserved spots up to the 29th place. As previously reported, one of these spots was promised to Katz, and there is ongoing discussion regarding whether MK Eti Atiya will also receive a reserved spot.