Netanyahu Ally's Aide Joins Ofer Winter's Campaign, Alarming Likud

Sharon Shalom, a close associate of Avigdor Lieberman and described as his "shadow man," has joined the inner circle of Ofer Winter, a former IDF general who recently entered public life. This move has triggered significant concern within the Likud party's leadership, according to reports.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly had an "excess capacity" agreement with the Religious Zionism party with the intention of preventing Winter from splitting the right-wing vote. Netanyahu is also seen as indirectly challenging Itamar Ben-Gvir, who is left without a party to sign an agreement with, unless he agrees to partner with Winter.

Winter, anticipating potential pressure, moved quickly to register his party on the first possible day to avoid attempts at persuasion. Netanyahu, it is believed, will not allow Winter to siphon votes from coalition supporters. Winter, however, believes his appeal lies with voters currently leaning left, whom he sees as disaffected by the current coalition parties. He posits that these "soft right" voters, who are unwilling to vote for existing coalition parties, are not influenced by Netanyahu and may even vote for Winter in defiance of a boycott call.

The central question remains whether Winter's assessment of this "soft right" electorate is accurate. Critics suggest that this segment might be exaggerated, consisting of vocal individuals online but lacking substantial public backing. The coming days will be critical for Winter as he navigates these challenges, facing a formidable campaign machine from Netanyahu's camp.