Ofer Winter Submits Knesset List Independently, Declares 'Elections Surprise'

Ofer Winter, head of the new 'Am Israel' party, submitted his candidate list for the 26th Knesset on Sunday. The party, launched just two weeks prior, aims to establish itself as a new political force. Winter, a retired Brigadier General, presented the party as bringing a "new spirit" to politics and representing diverse segments of Israeli society.

Winter stated the party will advocate for a right-wing security policy, demanding military決decisions in various arenas, alongside integrating the ultra-Orthodox into the IDF and supporting soldiers. "The 'Am Israel' party was launched only two weeks ago and has already become a significant player on the political map, and there is a reason for this: it brings a new spirit that represents the entire spectrum of the population and leads a policy of true right-wing and military decisiveness in all sectors," he declared.

The party leader emphasized a non-compromising stance on military service, stating, "Alongside integrating the ultra-Orthodox into the IDF and providing full backing to soldiers, without compromise and without willingness to serve as a political shield for Goldknopf at the expense of those serving." Winter concluded, "With God's help, we will be the surprise of the elections."

Winter's decision to run independently comes despite criticism regarding his refusal to unite with other parties, particularly given his party's standing near the electoral threshold. Earlier on Sunday, Rabbi Leitner, chairman of the ultra-Orthodox 'HaTzibur HaHaredi' party, reportedly rejected an offer from Winter for a merger, which would have placed Leitner's candidates in the 8th and 9th spots on the list. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also reportedly made significant efforts to broker mergers for Winter with other parties, including offering reserved spots on the Likud list for Winter's associates, but Winter ultimately refused all such proposals.