Retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter Calls for Equal Status for Torah Study and National Service
Retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter, a rising figure in Israeli politics ahead of the upcoming elections, is currently holding a series of public meetings across the country. In a recent event, Winter addressed several key issues including mistakes made during the recent war, the integration of Haredim into the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), and the state of the judicial system.
When asked about joining an existing political party amid speculation of alliances with Bezalel Smotrich or Itamar Ben-Gvir, Winter stated he would only consider running with a new political framework composed of fresh faces who have not been involved in politics before. He emphasized unity among diverse groups, saying, "There is no difference if you are Druze, Bedouin, or from Tel Aviv because we fight for the same goal."
On the contentious topic of military conscription, Winter advocated for reforming affirmative action policies to prioritize soldiers and reservists over others. He asserted, "Anyone who has not served in the IDF or national service cannot serve in public service." Addressing the coalition's attempt to legislate Torah study as a constitutional principle at the request of Haredi parties, Winter clarified that not everyone dressed in traditional black and white attire is truly engaged in Torah study. He called for those recognized as Torah learners to be given status equivalent to national service participants.
Winter, who has spent a decade working on integrating Haredim into the IDF, recounted his efforts establishing Haredi units in the Givati and Paratroopers brigades. He acknowledged setbacks due to broken trust but expressed optimism that many Haredim will join the army in the future through mutual respect and trust.
Regarding the judicial system, Winter criticized the current state as "crooked," accusing legal advisors and the judiciary of overstepping their authority and obstructing government policy. He urged elected officials to act responsibly and avoid political maneuvering, emphasizing that when the state is determined, appointments such as the heads of the Shin Bet and Mossad are successfully made. Winter highlighted the growing mistrust between government branches and called for accountability and cooperation to restore balance.
