Ofer Winter Demands Conscription Law Before Government Swearing-In

Brigadier General (Res.) Ofer Winter, leader of the 'Am Israel' party, has issued a firm ultimatum to Prime Minister-designate Benjamin Netanyahu: a conscription law mandating all young Israelis to serve must be passed before the new government is sworn in. Winter stated this is a non-negotiable condition, not merely a promise or a coalition agreement clause.

Winter confirmed his intention to recommend Netanyahu for prime minister, aligning his party with the right-wing bloc. However, he apologized to supporters who expressed disappointment with this decision, acknowledging their desire for a completely new political direction. He emphasized that his party seeks to serve the nation, not individuals, and will not join a government that fails to pass the conscription law prior to its formation.

Winter also criticized the current government's handling of the war in Gaza and the security apparatus, particularly regarding the integration of the ultra-Orthodox community into the IDF and the establishment of a public inquiry commission. He asserted that those who failed to achieve these goals in the past will not succeed in the future.

Furthermore, Winter outlined his criteria for future political alliances, stating that he would only unite with new figures who are not implicated in the failures leading up to the October 7th attacks and who are committed to genuine ideological principles rather than political maneuvering. He anticipates significant voter dissatisfaction and a potential protest vote in the upcoming elections.