Ofer Winter's 'Am Israel' Party Submits Knesset List Independently

Despite pressure to unite with other right-wing factions, the 'Am Israel' party, led by retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter, officially submitted its candidate list to the Central Elections Committee for the 26th Knesset. Winter's party, launched just two weeks ago, is running independently, rejecting calls for a merger.

The party's list includes Joseph Haddad, Netali Shem Tov, Eran Ben Ari, and Fler Hassan-Nahum in the top positions after Winter. Winter stated that his party brings a "new spirit" representing the entire population, advocating for "true right-wing policy and military decision-making in all arenas," alongside integrating the Haredi community into the IDF and fully supporting soldiers.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich criticized Winter's decision to run alone, calling it a "gamble" with the future of the right-wing bloc and the State of Israel. Smotrich suggested that only the left would benefit from Winter's refusal to unite. He expressed disappointment and questioned Winter's judgment and commitment to recommending Benjamin Netanyahu for prime minister.

Earlier reports indicated that negotiations between 'Am Israel' and the Haredi party 'HaTzibur HaHaredi,' led by Moti Lightner, failed. 'Am Israel' reportedly offered Lightner's party the ninth spot on the list, while 'HaTzibur HaHaredi' demanded the fourth, a gap deemed unbridgeable.