Ofer Winter Launches Election Campaign, Criticizes Security Doctrine

Ofer Winter, leader of the newly formed "Am Yisrael" party, launched his election campaign with billboards across Israel, positioning himself against prominent figures like Yair Golan and Gadi Eisenkot. Winter framed the central conflict of the upcoming elections as a debate over Israel's security concept, specifically contrasting the approach of "containment" with "decisiveness."

Speaking at the campaign launch, Winter emphasized the party's recent formation, stating, "The 'Am Yisrael' party has only existed for two weeks... and my first insight after two weeks is this: The 'Am Yisrael' party is going to be the senior surprise." He urged voters to believe in the party, asserting their commitment to working for the people.

Winter highlighted the diversity of his party's slate, which includes a religious Jew, a Christian Arab, a secular woman from the periphery, a kibbutz member from Be'eri, individuals from Judea and Samaria, young people, and professionals in agriculture, law, and public relations. He claimed this diverse representation is unique and authentic.

He also addressed perceived attempts to undermine his party since its announcement, stating, "What haven't they tried to do to us since we announced? To dismantle, to incite, to sabotage, to harm, spins, lies." Winter implied that these efforts were aimed at disrupting the party's momentum and message.