Likud MK Questions Ofer Winter's Right-Wing Credentials, Criticizes Netanyahu

Member of Knesset Tally Gottlieb of the Likud party expressed skepticism regarding Ofer Winter's ideological alignment with the right-wing bloc, stating in a radio interview that Winter "doesn't understand" the political discourse. Gottlieb specifically questioned Winter's commitment to judicial reform, suggesting his battlefield expertise does not translate to political debate and that he is unable to contend with the "bureaucratic establishment."

Gottlieb also criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, implying he did not seriously attempt to secure Winter a reserved spot within the Likud party. She dismissed any last-minute offers as insufficient, stating, "If you approach a person at the 90th minute, it doesn't count."

Furthermore, Gottlieb asserted that Winter is a "right-winger whom the left likes," pointing to his perceived silence on issues like judicial intervention in military actions and his use of vague terms like "judicial system correction." She argued that true right-wing governance requires asserting power against judicial overreach, which she believes Winter has not demonstrated.

Gottlieb also commented on Winter's new party, noting that one of its members, Lali Derai, has supported a state commission of inquiry headed by judges. Gottlieb warned right-wing voters against this, suggesting it undermines their goals and that Winter would likely align with figures like Benny Gantz, Avigdor Lieberman, and Gabi Ashkenazi.