Netanyahu Responds to Winter's Interview, Calls Him 'Bibi 2'

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded to an interview given by Ofer Winter, chairman of the Amcha Israel party, by releasing a video in which he labeled Winter as "Bibi 2." Netanyahu warned that Winter could draw votes from the right and potentially shift them to the left, aiding the formation of a government with political rivals.

Winter, a retired brigadier general, had stated in an interview on the program "Meet the Press" that he would not withdraw from the Knesset race, even if his party polled below the electoral threshold. He also criticized Netanyahu's government, citing a lack of decisive action against enemies, no voluntary immigration, failure to integrate Haredim into the IDF, rampant protection rackets, and widespread illegal weapons. Winter asserted that those dissatisfied with the current government should vote for his new right-wing party, Amcha Israel.

Winter further clarified that his party would not participate in another election and that they entered politics to enact change. He dismissed the idea of a narrow government with Gadi Eisenkot, stating it would be "narrow for Israel." Winter also indicated his aspiration to serve as Defense Minister, a role he believes would allow him to advance his security vision and views on Haredi conscription.

In response to Netanyahu's "Bibi 2" label, Winter stated that those who shoot themselves in the foot should not be surprised to limp later. The Likud party has been running a campaign against Amcha Israel, distributing videos on social media aimed at right-wing voters. Despite this, Winter has previously stated he would recommend Netanyahu for prime minister, though he refuses to commit to joining any government Netanyahu forms without preconditions.

Amcha Israel has been critical of the current government's policies regarding military decisions, the Gaza Strip, Haredi conscription, and public security. The party claims the security concept that led to the October 7th failures has not changed. Winter has also criticized the government's handling of various security incidents, including an incident on a Flydubai flight, which he accused the government of using to deflect responsibility.

Polls show Amcha Israel hovering around the electoral threshold, with one recent poll placing them at four seats. Likud fears that Winter's party could draw votes from other right-wing parties, potentially impacting the bloc's overall strength. Netanyahu had previously called for smaller right-wing parties to unite or withdraw to prevent wasted votes below the threshold. A significant portion of Winter's potential supporters, around 60%, are reportedly from current coalition parties, primarily Likud.