Likud Debates Impact of Ofer Winter's New Party on Right-Wing Bloc

The Likud party is reportedly deliberating on how to address the emergence of Ofer Winter's new party, "Am Echad Israel," and its potential impact on the right-wing political bloc. During a recent Likud campaign meeting, discussions revealed internal debate over whether Winter's party should be considered part of the bloc, with some likening him to a "hope for Kaplan." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was reportedly present for these discussions, which included various proposals on how the Likud should respond to Winter's political venture.

One suggestion voiced during the meeting by Yaakov Bardugo, a new addition to the Likud campaign, was that any decision to counter Winter must be made promptly, drawing a parallel to the situation with Naftali Bennett, who gained momentum before a decision was made regarding his political standing. This indicates a concern within Likud about allowing Winter's party to establish a significant base.

Coalition Chairman Ofir Katz expressed his view in an interview with i24NEWS that Winter's party presents two potential negative outcomes for the right-wing bloc. Either it will siphon votes that are insufficient to secure Knesset seats, thereby wasting them, or it will shift allegiances after the election. Katz explicitly stated his belief that Winter's party will harm the right-wing bloc regardless of whether it burns votes or switches sides, and he believes Winter and his associates will "do a Bennett" and move to the political center or left.

While no official decision has been announced, the internal discussions highlight the Likud party's strategic considerations as election campaigns begin to ramp up. The party appears to be weighing the risks and benefits of engaging with, or opposing, Winter's new political movement.