Israeli Politician Defends Hugging Rival, Accuses Netanyahu of Election Interference

Brigadier General (res.) Ofer Winter, chairman of the 'Ama'h Yisrael' party, has responded to criticism regarding a public embrace with former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot. Winter emphasized his respect for Eisenkot, despite political disagreements and his refusal to serve under him as prime minister. Speaking on Zafon 104.5FM radio, Winter stated that personal relationships should not be subjected to political attacks, citing his long acquaintance with Eisenkot from their military service and acknowledging Eisenkot's contributions and personal sacrifices.

Winter clarified that the hug was a "normal human gesture" and not an endorsement of Eisenkot's political views, urging an end to such "behavior" and calling for a different style of political discourse. He reiterated his opposition to Eisenkot on key security and policy issues and ruled out working under his leadership.

In addition to the Eisenkot incident, Winter accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of pressuring his party to withdraw from the upcoming Knesset elections. Winter addressed reports that Netanyahu had asked Rabbi Shmueli to persuade him to step down, expressing disbelief and stating that such pressure extended to his relatives and religious mentors. He described the situation as an attempt to intimidate his loved ones, though he noted his rabbis did not participate in these efforts.

Winter asserted that his party, 'Ama'h Yisrael,' aims to change the political culture in Israel by offering an alternative based on responsibility and respect, rather than mutual attacks. He acknowledged the party's struggle to cross the electoral threshold, citing polls that suggest public support but require increased voter turnout to secure a fifth seat.

Regarding security policy, Winter opposed the reconstruction of Gaza and called for a reassessment of the approach to Judea and Samaria, advocating for a strategy of decisiveness and initiative. He also commented on reports of a potential strike on Iran before the elections and disagreements between Netanyahu and IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, expressing hope that information about attempts to initiate military operations was untrue and stating his trust in military leadership.

Despite his criticism of Netanyahu, Winter affirmed his position within the national right-wing camp, ruling out alliances with Mansour Abbas and Yair Golan due to religious and security beliefs. He also opposed the Oslo Accords and the establishment of a Palestinian state, emphasizing that his disagreements with Netanyahu do not signify a shift in his political alignment. Winter concluded that right-wing forces should focus on external threats and that any attempt to form a stable right-wing government without his party would be mistaken.