Netanyahu Pushes for Unity as Ofer Winter Fails to Pass Electoral Threshold

Ahead of the 26th Knesset elections, negotiations are underway between Religious Zionism party leader Bezalel Smotrich and retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter, who planned to run separately. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has intervened, warning both that polls show no chance for success if they run independently. Initially, Netanyahu suggested Smotrich step aside for Winter, who might attract a broader voter base. However, recent polling shows Religious Zionism consistently surpassing the electoral threshold, while Winter struggles to do so.

Party officials have indicated that Winter is welcome to join Religious Zionism and could receive a reserved spot on the list, but not the top position. Winter insists on leading the party and aims to run independently. The party's primaries are currently underway, with ten candidates competing, including incumbent Knesset members and newcomers like Omer Rahamim, CEO of the Yesha Council. Smotrich has already reserved a spot for Tzvika Mor, father of Etan Mor, who was kidnapped in Gaza on October 7.

If Winter decides to join, he might take the second spot currently held by Mor. Despite ongoing talks described as low intensity and without significant progress, Netanyahu is expected to renew pressure after the primaries conclude to secure a joint run. Should these efforts fail, Netanyahu may attempt to reunite Religious Zionism with Otzma Yehudit, as he did previously.