Likud Ministers Clash With Ofer Winter Over War Strategy

Senior Likud ministers have intensified their public dispute with Ofer Winter, chairman of the 'Amcha Israel' party, following his criticisms of the government's conduct in the ongoing conflict. Minister Israel Katz stated that Winter is "not updated" and that his critique is "distorted," asserting that significant progress has been made in Gaza, including the destruction of tunnels and the surrounding of remaining Hamas strongholds. Katz also suggested Winter's views echo those of "former security officials with outdated security concepts."

Minister Eli Cohen urged Winter to withdraw from political competition and instead reach an agreement with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a role in the next government. Cohen cited polls suggesting Winter's party struggles to pass the electoral threshold and draws most of its support from the right, potentially harming the national camp. He claimed Winter was previously offered a secure spot on the Likud list but chose a path that "endangers the national camp."

Winter responded sharply to Katz, arguing that while there have been achievements, there has been no decisive victory or "voluntary migration" from Gaza, a concept he had advocated for. Winter accused Katz of failing to grant him the necessary authority for a proposed migration administration and of "throwing away an open check from the American administration." He also criticized the continued transfer of supplies to Hamas and questioned the delay in eliminating the organization.

Sources indicate that Netanyahu decided to "go after Winter's head," fearing that Winter might eventually align with Avigdor Lieberman. The Likud is concerned Winter may not pass the electoral threshold, which hovers around four to five seats in polls. The dispute with Winter occurs amidst a separate public spat between Likud and the Otzma Yehudit party regarding the composition of the next government.