Ofer Winter Demands Conscription Law Before Joining Government

Ofer Winter, chairman of the "Am Israel" party, has escalated his rhetoric regarding the conscription of the ultra-Orthodox, stating his party will not join any government unless a service law mandating all young adults to enlist and contribute to the state is passed before its formation. "We will not enter a government that does not pass, before its establishment, a law that ends draft evasion and requires everyone to enlist and contribute," Winter declared at a party conference. He emphasized that this is a prerequisite for joining a government, not a coalition promise, and stressed that no sector is above the law, with those who serve receiving benefits, and combat soldiers and reservists being a national priority.

Winter's firm stance comes amid a reported decline in his party's poll numbers and criticism that he is shifting his position on the ultra-Orthodox community. Previously, during the war, Winter had expressed different views, emphasizing the importance of yeshiva students and suggesting that conscription should be limited to essential needs rather than inflated numbers. Media outlets have dismissed his demand as politically unfeasible, noting the difficulty of passing a law in its third reading before a government is sworn in.

Alongside Winter, Yosef Haddad, a candidate for "Am Israel," echoed the party's commitment to its principles, stating they are not seeking positions but rather a platform to address national issues. Haddad indicated the party aims to join a broad right-wing government but only after its proposed changes are implemented, advocating for shared national burden across all sectors, including Arabs, secular, religious, and ultra-Orthodox Jews. The party is also targeting two Knesset seats from the Arab community, citing growing support among Arab citizens focused on personal security, welfare, and education.

Winter reiterated his commitment to integrating the ultra-Orthodox into the IDF, alongside a demand for a public trust-inspiring inquiry committee and a clear decision in Gaza. While affirming the party's right-wing alignment and intention to recommend Benjamin Netanyahu for prime minister, Winter stated their loyalty is to the nation, not individuals. He also suggested future political alliances would be with new, uncompromised elements prioritizing the nation's well-being.

Recent polls show "Am Israel" with only four seats, close to the electoral threshold, leading to speculation that Winter's strong stance is a tactic to bolster his party's standing.