Am Israel Party Chairman Vows to Continue Knesset Race Despite Pressure
Translated & summarized from Now 14 by baba
Ofer Winter, chairman of the Am Israel Party, accused right-wing factions of a smear campaign and threats that led to the resignation of Dovidi Ben Zion. Winter vowed his party would not succumb to pressure and would continue its Knesset race. He cited signs posted in members' communities and personal attacks as evidence of the campaign. Party members Lili Drayi and Netali Shem Tov also condemned the tactics, with Drayi stating, "We will not break."
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Am Israel Party Chairman Ofer Winter accused right-wing elements of a smear campaign and threats leading to Dovidi Ben Zion's resignation.
- Winter vowed his party would not yield to pressure and would continue its campaign for the Knesset.
- Signs were posted in communities of party members, labeling them as endangering Israel.
- Party members Lili Drayi and Netali Shem Tov condemned the personal attacks and boundary-crossing tactics.
- Winter drew a parallel to his military service to illustrate his resolve against current pressures.
Ofer Winter, chairman of the Am Israel Party, accused elements on the right of conducting a smear campaign and threats against his party members. Winter stated that the pressure exerted on Dovidi Ben Zion and his family led to Ben Zion's resignation from the party. Despite this, Winter declared that the party will not yield and will continue its run for the Knesset, vowing, "I will not bow and I will not prostrate myself."
During a press conference, Winter alleged that a "timed campaign of slander, threats, and venomous attacks," funded by tens of millions of shekels from the state budget, is underway to harm the Am Israel Party. He cited the posting of signs in communities where party members reside, including Ben Zion, Lili Drayi, and Eran Ben Ari, labeling them as "endangering the State of Israel" simply for exercising their democratic right to be elected.
Winter specifically addressed Ben Zion's departure, claiming it was a direct result of the pressure on him and his family. He expressed support for Ben Zion and respect for his decision. Winter also asserted that the public, particularly right-wing voters, are tired of the current political climate, including hatred, threats, and personal boycotts, stating that these elections are about that disillusionment.
He warned against returning to the pre-October 7th public discourse, emphasizing the importance of debate but not of "dismantling the home." Winter drew a parallel to his military service, recalling an incident where he refused to apologize for reciting the "Shema Yisrael" prayer before battle, to illustrate his resolve against current pressures. "Ten years later and in all units they recite a prayer before going into battle. Truth will eventually prevail," he concluded.
Party members Lili Drayi and Netali Shem Tov echoed Winter's sentiments, condemning the personal attacks and the crossing of red lines in political discourse. Drayi stated, "We will not break," while Shem Tov criticized the pursuit of family members and the tarnishing of national heroes, arguing that such behavior discourages people from public life.
Mentioned
The same event, reported separately by each outlet. Open a few to compare what different newsrooms emphasize — and what they leave out.
Right 2
Not the same event — other stories that share this one’s people, places, or theme: background, reactions, and follow-ups.
