Netanyahu Warns Ministers of Right-Wing Vote Splitting by New Party

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed concern during a private meeting with ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich that a new right-wing party led by Ofer Winter could siphon votes from the bloc and potentially help form a government led by Avigdor Lieberman.

Netanyahu reportedly told the ministers that Winter's party might not pass the electoral threshold, suggesting its media exposure is intended to "burn votes" from the right. He further warned that even if Winter's party does succeed in crossing the threshold, it could draw votes away from the existing right-wing parties, potentially enabling Lieberman to form a government after the elections.

"We need to unite forces to prevent the danger," Netanyahu was quoted as saying, emphasizing the need for coordination and unity within the right-wing camp ahead of the upcoming elections. The discussion occurred during a meeting where the potential impact of Winter's candidacy on the right-wing bloc was a key topic.

Winter, who heads the "Am Israel" party, is a recent entrant into the political arena. The meeting between Netanyahu, Ben-Gvir, and Smotrich highlights the strategic considerations and potential electoral challenges facing the right-wing parties.