Netanyahu Offers Exit Packages as Vinter List Candidate Departs

Dovidi Ben Zion, who was listed as number 8 on Ofer Vinter's political list, announced his withdrawal from the upcoming Knesset race on Tuesday. Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu is reportedly preparing "retirement packages" for senior members of Vinter's "Amcha Yisrael" party, including Netali Shem Tov, aiming to persuade them to leave the political contest. Ben Zion stated that he joined the list out of a sense of mission but decided to withdraw because the risk of the list failing to pass the electoral threshold was too high, which he felt would lead to the loss of votes from those who believed in the cause. He cited his military service, including extensive reserve duty since October 7th, as reinforcing his belief that the mission comes before personal considerations. The "Amcha Yisrael" party responded by thanking Ben Zion and lamenting the alleged pressures, threats, and harassment directed at him and his family by unnamed individuals who oppose new forces entering Israeli politics.

Prime Minister Netanyahu praised Ben Zion's decision, asserting that Vinter's run endangers the right-wing bloc and could lead to the formation of a left-wing government. Netanyahu urged other members of Vinter's list to follow suit to ensure a right-wing victory. Ben Zion, in his statement, expressed admiration for Vinter as a true right-wing figure and commander dedicated to Israel's security, stating he believed in Vinter's path. He also affirmed his continued commitment to serving the residents of the Samaria region and the State of Israel in all capacities.