Ofer Winter Criticizes Likud for 'Deals and Scheming,' Not Serving All Israelis

Ofer Winter, leader of the "Am Israel" party, has publicly criticized the ruling Likud party, accusing it of engaging in "deals and scheming" rather than representing all Israelis. Speaking at a recent event in Rishon LeZion, Winter stated that Likud "should have been the party of all the people, but today there are business dealings there." He positioned his own party as an alternative, asserting they are not involved in such practices and are being targeted because they present an "unpleasant mirror image" of Likud's current operations.

Winter's remarks come amid an ongoing dispute between Likud and his new party. He also revealed harsh statements allegedly made by Likud members against him, including calls to "dismantle him" and "eliminate him," which he contrasted with rhetoric typically reserved for enemies like Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar or Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah. Winter claimed these statements were made by ministers, Knesset members, or candidates within Likud, despite past attempts to ally with him.

Furthermore, Winter alleged that Likud has attempted to dismantle his party through various means, including threats, hiring private investigators, and sending hateful messages to him and his party members. He emphasized his party's resilience, stating they are "strong as one fist and above all not afraid." Winter concluded by asserting that his party members are incorruptible and will remain so in the next government.