Netanyahu Weighs Truce with Opponent to Secure Right-Wing Votes

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's circle is considering a "ceasefire" with Ofer Winter, chairman of the "Am Israel" party, in an effort to consolidate votes for the right-wing bloc. The move, reported by Channel 13, aims to facilitate a surplus vote agreement between Winter's party and Itamar Ben-Gvir's Otzma Yehudit party. This strategic maneuver is intended to prevent valuable votes from being lost below the electoral threshold.

While some of Netanyahu's advisors support the initiative due to concerns about the electoral balance, the Prime Minister himself currently opposes it. This proposal comes after weeks of sharp attacks and accusations exchanged between Netanyahu's Likud party and Winter's faction. Likud insiders have previously suggested Winter might be inadvertently costing the right-wing bloc votes or even aligning with left-wing elements post-election.

Winter has responded forcefully, criticizing the political leadership and Netanyahu's close circle. He accused them of receiving poor advice, being disconnected from the field, and relying on biased polls that create a false sense of security. Winter warned that attacks on his party are self-inflicted wounds that harm the entire bloc's chances, detailing alleged attempts to dismantle his party through threats and harassment.

Likud has vehemently denied Winter's accusations, demanding a retraction and threatening legal action. However, some senior Likud figures have cautioned against escalating the conflict with Winter, fearing it could cost the party crucial mandates needed to form a government. Internal debates within Likud highlight concerns that Winter could either join the left if he passes the threshold or cause vote loss if he doesn't.

Adding to the tension, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has publicly criticized the Prime Minister's office for allegedly allowing foreign entities to influence government composition and for perceived distancing from him. The proposed surplus vote agreement with Winter is seen as a potential solution to prevent vote wastage and secure the right-wing bloc's future, though Netanyahu's current opposition underscores the complex dilemma facing the right-wing leadership.