Shahar Varon to join Together's Knesset list and lead new IDF rehab program, Bennett announces

Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett announced that Shahar Varon, a veteran who experienced the October 7 attacks, will join the 'Together' party's list for the upcoming Knesset elections. Varon will also spearhead a new initiative focused on rehabilitating wounded Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers.

Bennett described Varon as "the salt of the earth, a courageous soldier and commander who led his soldiers through the hell of October 7." He further noted Varon's leadership in campaigning against draft evasion and his current role in revolutionizing the treatment of wounded IDF soldiers. Varon's inclusion on Bennett's list underscores the party's commitment to addressing the needs of veterans.

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Shahar is the salt of the earth, a courageous soldier and commander who led his soldiers through the hell of October 7. [He] led the campaign against the draft evasion law and is leading our revolution in the treatment of wounded IDF soldiers.

The 'Together' party, a merger of Bennett's and opposition leader Yair Lapid's factions, has seen a decline in projected seats in recent polls. Despite this, the party aims to advance significant initiatives, including the Varon-led IDF recovery program, which is part of Bennett's broader "New Covenant" plan. This plan seeks to rebuild various aspects of Israeli life if elected.

The proposed IDF sub-program allocates over NIS 2 million to enhance state-provided funding for soldier recovery. It aims to establish a national rehabilitation authority and offer comprehensive medical, legal, and financial support. The initiative will also simplify the medical committee process, assist with document collection and benefit acquisition, and prioritize wounded soldiers for adapted housing.

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As a wounded soldier undergoing rehabilitation himself, Shahar knows the issue firsthand, and he is exactly