Likud Threatens Defamation Lawsuit Against Ofer Winter Amid Escalating Political Feud

The political conflict between the Likud party and Ofer Winter, a prominent figure in the "Am Israel" party, has intensified, with Likud threatening a defamation lawsuit against Winter. The dispute erupted after Winter launched a sharp attack on Likud and Prime Minister Netanyahu's associates, accusing them of providing bad advice and being disconnected from the reality of the right-wing bloc. Winter claimed attempts were made to dismantle his party, including sending private investigators and hateful messages.

Winter specifically criticized Netanyahu's advisors for relying on "fictitious polls" and fostering a false sense of security about an impending victory. He stated, "We need to dismantle him, we need to bring him down, it's time to eliminate him", remarks he attributed to Likud members targeting him, contrasting it with their rhetoric against Hamas and Hezbollah leaders.

In addition to targeting Likud, Winter also criticized Avigdor Lieberman, stating that Lieberman misleads his voters and cannot bring about a decisive outcome for the right-wing if he partners with figures like Yair Golan. Winter warned that without a strong "Am Israel" party, Israelis could find figures like Golan and Gabi Lasky in positions of influence, which he deems dangerous.

Likud vehemently rejected Winter's claims, calling them "an absolute lie" and demanding a retraction. The party stated that if Winter does not retract his accusations, Likud will pursue a defamation lawsuit. Likud also criticized Winter for attacking the right-wing instead of focusing on opposing the left-wing bloc, which includes figures like Gabi Eisenkot and Yair Golan.

Following Likud's response, "Am Israel" clarified that Winter did not attribute the private investigator claims directly to Likud during his speech, attempting to de-escalate the situation. The escalating confrontation highlights the deep divisions and intense rivalries within the Israeli political landscape.