Smotrich Offers Cabinet Post to Winter in Bid to Consolidate Right-Wing Vote

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has made a dramatic offer to Ofer Winter, a candidate running for the Knesset, proposing a ministerial position in exchange for Winter withdrawing from the race. Smotrich, who leads the Religious Zionism party, aims to prevent a split in the national camp and ensure votes are not lost below the electoral threshold. He warned against repeating the "disaster" of the 1992 elections, where a division of votes allegedly led to the Oslo Accords.

Smotrich's proposal includes offering Winter a role as Minister of Defense, a position that would be secured by Religious Zionism in coalition negotiations. This role would come with full authority to establish a voluntary immigration administration for Gaza and an administration for recruiting and integrating Haredim (ultra-Orthodox Jews) into society. Smotrich emphasized that Winter's party is unlikely to pass the electoral threshold, and continuing his candidacy would risk wasting tens of thousands of votes and potentially lead to a left-wing government.

In a public appeal, Smotrich described Winter as a "good man, a values-driven leader, and a brave commander with many merits." He recalled offering Winter a "full and genuine partnership" before party lists were finalized, which was rejected. Smotrich stressed the importance of national unity and preventing the "disaster of '92," urging Winter to demonstrate "national responsibility" and bring his abilities and experience into official government work.

Smotrich detailed the proposed responsibilities for Winter, including leading a national effort to manage voluntary immigration from Gaza, involving multiple government agencies. Additionally, Winter would oversee the recruitment and integration of Haredim into the military and society, establishing preparatory frameworks and support mechanisms for their integration. Smotrich drew a parallel to the successful revolution in Judea and Samaria through the settlement administration in the Defense Ministry, promising similar tools and authority for Winter's tasks.