Netanyahu's Inner Circle Warns Against Off-Track Moves by Ofer Winter

Senior figures close to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have expressed serious concerns about the conduct of retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter, who is considering his political future ahead of the upcoming elections. A senior official within Netanyahu's tight circle criticized Winter, comparing him to politicians who abandoned their political camps, and described him as "our Silman," implying a potential defection or betrayal.

According to sources near Netanyahu, the Prime Minister has recently voiced distrust toward Winter, citing fears that Winter will not heed the leadership of the right-wing bloc. These worries have intensified amid reports that Winter is exploring the creation of a new political platform that would unite religious and secular voters. This new list is expected to advocate for forming a right-wing government in coalition with parties from the opposing bloc.

Winter reportedly aims to include only new faces on his list, deliberately excluding current politicians. Despite these concerns, the Prime Minister's office responded to the reports by stating that relations between Netanyahu and Winter remain excellent. Winter himself has not issued any comment on the matter.