Ofer Winter Aims for Defense Minister Role, Criticizes Security Establishment

Ofer Winter, chairman of the "Am Israel" party and former military secretary to the defense minister, stated his ambition to become Israel's next defense minister in a Channel 11 interview. Winter, who previously commanded the Givati Brigade, criticized the current security concept, asserting that Israel remains trapped in a flawed strategic mindset despite recent actions.

He argued that Israel has not achieved decisive victories in any arena, citing the lack of Palestinian emigration from Gaza and the absence of effective governance. Winter outlined his principles for a new security approach, emphasizing the right to the land, swift decision-making, and sole Israeli responsibility for its security, rejecting foreign-influenced governance models for Gaza.

Winter also leveled accusations against the military leadership during his tenure as military secretary in 2018, claiming the army misled the political echelon to avoid military action in Gaza. He specifically criticized former IDF Chief of Staff and "Yashar!" party leader Gadi Eisenkot regarding his appointments and judgment.

Regarding the conscription of Haredim (ultra-Orthodox Jews), Winter suggested that a specific conscription law is unnecessary, arguing that existing frameworks could be adapted to integrate Haredim into the military while respecting their way of life. He expressed frustration over the prolonged lack of Haredi enlistment, attributing it to a failure of trust and military conduct.

Addressing concerns about a potential repeat of Naftali Bennett's political trajectory, Winter identified himself as a staunch right-wing individual who has consistently paid a price for his views. He declared he would not cooperate with Yair Golan or Gadi Eisenkot, aiming instead to form a broad right-wing government not reliant on smaller parties.