Likud Lawmaker Urges Right-Wing to Stop Attacking Ofer Winter

Hanoch Milwidsky, chairman of the Knesset Finance Committee and a Likud lawmaker, has publicly urged right-wing activists to cease their aggressive criticism of Ofer Winter, who is running independently in the upcoming elections. Milwidsky acknowledged that Winter's candidacy at this time is a mistake but emphasized that attacking him will not persuade him to withdraw and may even strengthen his position.

In a post on social media platform X, Milwidsky stated, "I am convinced that his candidacy at this time is a mistake, but at the same time, Winter is a hero of Israel. And now, a fait accompli: he is also a done deal regarding his running until the end. Attacking him will not convince him to withdraw, on the contrary." He added, "My brothers and sisters on the right, leave him alone. Do not turn the very act of his candidacy into a journey of overcoming and victory."

Milwidsky's remarks come amid growing criticism from within the right-wing camp regarding Winter's decision to run independently. This move is seen by some, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as potentially detrimental to the right-wing bloc's electoral prospects. Milwidsky, however, believes that continued attacks will only bolster Winter's resolve and appeal to his supporters, drawing a parallel to Winter's past service in the IDF.