Ofer Winter Vows Fierce Opposition to Closing Eli Pre-Military Academy

Ofer Winter, chairman of the 'Amcha Israel' party, visited the Eli pre-military academy in the West Bank on Friday, meeting with rabbis and hundreds of students. Winter, a graduate of the academy, shared his experiences and emphasized the importance of significant military service.

During a conversation with students, Winter issued a strong warning against any attempts to close the Eli academy, stating, "Anyone who thinks of closing the Eli academy, which has sacrificed itself for the people of Israel, is making a huge mistake. Whoever dares to raise a finger against the Eli academy will find me facing them with all my might."

Winter, who will observe Yom Kippur at Eli as he does annually, met with the academy's heads, including Rabbi Yigal Levinstein and Rabbi Eli Sadan, along with other rabbis and educators. Rabbi Sadan addressed Winter's potential move into politics and the role of Defense Minister, stating, "I don't deal in politics, but I hear all sorts of vile things about you in the media. I have known you for many, many years and I know you have not changed and you are a humble person who does everything for the sake of Heaven, for the people of Israel, and your intentions are pure."

Sadan added that God judges based on intention, not just actions, and encouraged Winter not to worry about political criticism if his motives are pure and aimed at advancing his people. The article also briefly mentioned that the security officer of Tzur Natan, who was injured in an attack, received an award this week.