Ofer Winter Slams Avigdor Lieberman's Proposal for Jordanian Control in West Bank

Ofer Winter, chairman of the "Am Israel" party, vehemently criticized Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, for suggesting that Jordanian forces could manage areas A and B in the West Bank. Winter, who previously served as Lieberman's military secretary, called the proposal "dangerous" and questioned Lieberman's judgment, asking if they had "gone mad" to consider foreign troops operating in Israeli-controlled territory.

Winter highlighted the recent statements by Jordan's King Abdullah II, who at the UN called Israeli actions in the West Bank "war crimes" and described the Israeli government's "appetite" as a regional threat. Winter argued that it was illogical for Jordan, which has made such accusations, to then be responsible for Israeli security, especially near Israeli settlements.

He asserted that only the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) should be responsible for Israel's security between the Jordan River and the sea. Winter warned that any alternative arrangement was part of a "dangerous concept" that could lead to another "October 7th" disaster, this time originating from the West Bank.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also reacted to Lieberman's remarks, demanding that he retract his proposal. Netanyahu reiterated his view that Lieberman leans left, citing his past coalition with Mansour Abbas and potential future alliances. However, Netanyahu stated he was surprised by Lieberman's suggestion of Jordanian control over West Bank territories, urging him to immediately reconsider.