Ofer Winter Emerges as a Tough New Military Leader Israel's Enemies Should Fear

Following the October 7 attacks, there was widespread hope that Israel's political and military leadership would be replaced by fresh forces with new approaches. However, the reality appears unchanged, with the same figures remaining in power. Against this backdrop, Ofer Winter stands out as a distinctive figure bringing a different perspective. Unlike many politicians perceived as more of the same, Winter advocates a more assertive military stance, emphasizing decisive victory for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

Winter, often labeled an extreme right-winger, is described as a pragmatic and combative commander. He openly rejects policies of containment or delay, stating, "I hate wars, but when there is a war, I tear them apart and do not fight with tied hands." Before leaving the IDF, he outlined his combat method: "Big bombs first, then shells, then D9 armored bulldozers, and finally soldiers with M16 rifles. This is the real morality."

His approach has sparked controversy in the past, notably before Operation Protective Edge when, as commander of the Givati Brigade, he incorporated religious content into pre-battle briefings, invoking divine support for their mission against Gaza terrorists. While initially divisive, this practice has since become more common across IDF units, reflecting a broader cultural shift.

Winter’s tough, no-nonsense military leadership style is seen as exactly what Israel needs in its current security environment. The article suggests that enemies of the state should recognize Winter as a formidable figure not to be underestimated, embodying the kind of leadership that could restore a sense of victory and deterrence to the IDF.

The piece concludes that Winter represents a new color in Israeli leadership, one that rejects passivity and signals a readiness to confront threats decisively, contrasting with the stagnant political scene post-October 7.