Levy, Shamir back on Likud roster

Yitzhak Shamir's son, David Levy's daughter expected to rank high on Likud elections list following merger with Yisrael Beiteinu. Fathers considered key figures in party's history

Reuters | Published: 10.28.12, 11:29

The recent merger between the Likud and Yisarel Beitenu parties has yet to prove its efficiency in the polls; however, it has managed to come a full circle, bringing the offspring of two of the Likud's most memorable figures back to the spotlight.

Yair Shamir, 67, son of late Prime Minister Yitzhak Shamir, joined Yisrael Beiteinu six months ago, and was reportedly listed second on its list for the upcoming elections. Following the merger, Shamir is expected to rank fifth on the party's roster, a spot reserved to Avigdor Lieberman's deputy.

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Shamir was said to have been surprised by the merger, but not disappointed by it. "It's part of a long-term vision. Each of the two parties needs to give up something in order to make it work," he said.

"I hope to gain a position that matches my abilities. I won't stay if I feel the role I am giving does not fit this definition." he added.

In a recent interview, Shamir Jr. told Yedioth Ahronoth about his father's complex relationship with PM Benjamin Netanyahu: "My father nurtured Netanyahu like no other, and was later extremely disappointed with him… He didn't think highly of Netanyahu's ability to stand under pressure."

During Yitzhak Shamir's term as prime minister, David Levy served as his deputy and foreign minister. His daughter, MK Orli Levy–Abekasis, who has completed a successful term in the 18th Knesset, will likely receive a ministerial role from Lieberman, if elected.