Smotrich Slams Opponent Over Refusal to Unite National Camp

Bezalel Smotrich, chairman of the Religious Zionism party and Finance Minister, has sharply criticized retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter, chairman of the "Am Ech Yisrael" party. Smotrich's criticism came after Winter's party submitted its list for the 26th Knesset.

Smotrich accused Winter of consistently refusing all proposals for unity within the national camp. He warned that such actions could benefit the left-wing, specifically mentioning "Gali Baharav Miara, Yitzhak Amit, and their friends on the left." Smotrich stated that Winter's refusal to unite is "very disappointing" and casts doubt on his commitment to recommend Benjamin Netanyahu for prime minister and to operate solely within the right-wing bloc.

Smotrich urged right-wing voters to support the Religious Zionism party, emphasizing that "a true right-winger does not take a risk this time." He suggested that Winter's behavior raises questions about his judgment and the credibility of his promise to support Netanyahu and the national camp.

Winter's party, "Am Ech Yisrael," submitted its Knesset list independently, foregoing potential mergers with other right-wing factions. Smotrich's remarks highlight internal tensions and strategic disagreements within the Israeli right-wing ahead of the upcoming elections.