Energy Minister Cohen Urges Ofer Winter Not to Run Independently
Energy Minister Eli Cohen has called on former IDF General Ofer Winter not to run independently in the upcoming elections, warning that such a move could endanger the national camp. Cohen expressed support for the union between Bezalel Smotrich and Moshe Feiglin but stated that the right-wing bloc is not yet prepared for elections.
Speaking on Channel 14's "Five" program, Cohen urged Winter to "come to your senses" and highlighted the risk of votes being lost if parties polling near the electoral threshold fail to pass it. He cited past examples such as Naftali Bennett, Ayelet Shaked, Orly Levy, and Moshe Feiglin, who he claimed received more mandates in polls but ultimately did not pass the threshold.
"Going forward in this situation is irresponsible and a danger to the national camp," Cohen stated. He added that Winter's potential candidacy, especially if it falls below the threshold, could lead to a loss of votes for the right-wing bloc.
When asked if he believed Winter would recommend Benjamin Netanyahu for Prime Minister, Cohen expressed respect for Winter's military service but urged him to heed the Prime Minister's call. "I will respect him if he cares about the country, the national camp, and settlement, if he answers the Prime Minister's call," Cohen said.
Cohen also referenced Naftali Bennett's past political decisions, questioning if a former CEO of the Yesha Council would have endorsed Yair Lapid for Prime Minister and allied with the Ra'am party. He concluded by urging Winter to act responsibly, stating that the Prime Minister has offered him a "very generous deal that will protect the State of Israel."
