Ofer Winter Declares Ambition for Defense Minister Role, Criticizes Netanyahu

Ofer Winter, chairman of the 'Am Israel' party and a retired Brigadier General, has expressed his strong desire to become Israel's next Defense Minister, stating he will do "everything" to achieve the position. In an interview with Dana Weiss on 'Weekend News,' Winter launched a sharp critique of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him a "sucker" who was "let into being manipulated" by the security establishment's strategic outlook. Winter also claimed that Netanyahu was passive regarding Qatari funding for Gaza, accepting the security apparatus's view that it was "income support" rather than "protection money."

Winter detailed his proposal to Netanyahu on the eve of the Gaza ground operation, advocating against a direct assault, which he deemed "stupid." Instead, he suggested pushing the Gazan population southward and encouraging their emigration to Europe, a concept he reiterated in the interview. He also revealed that private investigators were sent to his home after he entered politics, an action he believes was intended to intimidate him.

Reflecting on his military career, Winter addressed past criticisms about his alleged political maneuvering while in uniform, particularly regarding meetings with politicians. He clarified that he has no personal vendettas, citing his visit to Gadi Eisenkot after Eisenkot's son was killed in the war as an example of his non-personal approach. Winter stated his intention is to "fix" what he perceives as flawed security concepts that have persisted for years, such as prioritizing enemy civilians and a policy of containment.

Regarding the future, Winter indicated he would not serve under Gadi Eisenkot or Naftali Bennett, but did not rule out sitting with Avigdor Lieberman. He also discussed his party's platform, emphasizing the need to integrate the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community into military service with tailored solutions, ensuring those who serve receive greater benefits, and imposing sanctions on those who do not. Winter also expressed a desire for Jewish settlement in Gaza and a territorial price for Lebanon if it initiates conflict, drawing parallels to David Ben-Gurion's policies.