Ofer Winter Defends Party Member Yosef Haddad Amid Two-State Solution Controversy

Ofer Winter, chairman of the 'Am Israel' party and a retired brigadier general, has publicly defended Yosef Haddad, the party's second-ranked candidate, against calls for his dismissal. The controversy erupted after an old video resurfaced showing Haddad expressing support for a two-state solution in a 2019 interview with Saudi television. Winter strongly rejected the demands to remove Haddad, criticizing the hypocrisy and questioning if Haddad had become an enemy of Israel. Haddad himself stated that the circulated clip was selectively edited and that his views have since evolved, particularly after the 2021 "Guardian of the Walls" events, and he now firmly opposes the establishment of a Palestinian state.

Despite Haddad's explanations, criticism persisted from the right. Bezalel Smotrich, chairman of the Religious Zionism party, alluded to Winter's recruitment strategy, suggesting that choosing new, unvetted candidates carries risks beyond the electoral threshold. Moshe Feiglin, chairman of the Zehut party, also attacked the situation, arguing that post-October 7th societal repair requires deep truth-seeking, not just popularity.

Winter, however, framed Haddad's evolving stance as a reason for support, stating that anyone whose views haven't changed since October 7th is ignorant. He emphasized that the crucial factor now is who has awakened to reality and adapted, not past statements. Winter asserted that his party embraces those who have changed their minds and does not abandon its members. He reiterated his party's platform against a Palestinian state and in favor of voluntary emigration from Gaza.

Concluding his remarks, Winter offered full personal and political backing to Haddad, whom he praised as a proud Golani Brigade fighter, a wounded veteran, and Israel's most effective advocate. Winter stated that Haddad's high placement on the list is intended as a "correction for Israeli society" and encouraged him to continue his work for Israel.