Ofer Winter Defends Hugging Rival Gadi Eisenkot Amidst Political Firestorm
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS by baba
Ofer Winter, chairman of the 'Am Israel' party, defended hugging rival Gadi Eisenkot on TV, stating he would embrace any "brother" regardless of political views. Winter acknowledged ideological differences with Eisenkot but called for an end to political hatred and boycotts. He also affirmed his commitment to the right-wing bloc and stated he would not serve under Eisenkot.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Ofer Winter defended hugging rival Gadi Eisenkot, calling him not an enemy despite deep ideological differences.
- Winter urged an end to political hatred and boycotts, calling for national healing among leaders.
- Winter affirmed his right-wing stance and stated he would not serve in a government led by Eisenkot.
- The incident occurred during a joint television appearance on 'Shavua' (Weekend) on i24NEWS.
- Winter rejected claims he might cause the right-wing bloc to fall before upcoming elections.
Ofer Winter, chairman of the 'Am Israel' party, responded Sunday to public backlash over a hug he shared with Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the 'Yashar!' party, during a television interview. Winter stated that he would embrace any "brother" in times of grief, referencing the death of a fallen soldier, regardless of political disagreements, even if it cost him votes.
Winter acknowledged deep ideological differences and strong criticisms of Eisenkot's "containment policy" but insisted Eisenkot is not an enemy. He decried the "hatred" and "boycotts," calling for national healing and for leaders to set an example, emphasizing that not everything is political.
In a separate interview, Winter clarified that he would not serve under Eisenkot, identifying himself as part of the right-wing bloc, even when facing criticism from Prime Minister Netanyahu. He also stated he has no intention of joining a government led by Eisenkot and rejected the notion that he would cause the right-wing bloc to fall, affirming his long-standing commitment to the national camp.
The article also references previous interviews where Eisenkot criticized Netanyahu as "delusional" and mentioned holding Netanyahu's hand during "panic hours." It also notes an offer from Bezalel Smotrich to Winter in exchange for his withdrawal.
Mentioned
