Retired General Ofer Winter Advances New Right-Wing Party Talks in Israel

Retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter is working to establish a new right-wing political party in Israel, engaging recently with several figures associated with the right. Among those involved is public diplomacy activist Yosef Hadad, who initiated the formation of the "Courageous Israel" party and has discussed a potential political alliance with Winter. Another figure is Lali Deri, a resident of the West Bank settlement Eli and a bereaved mother whose son Saadia was killed in the "Sword of Iron" war. Deri previously ran in Likud primaries and is currently part of the "Believers" movement.

Political sources indicate Winter believes established parties in Netanyahu’s bloc will struggle to regain right-wing voters disappointed by the current coalition. He aims to create a list that introduces new faces to the political system. At this stage, Winter is not interested in reserved spots within Likud or alliances with Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir. The emerging party is expected to remain within the right-wing bloc but will not join a government led by Gadi Eizenkot.

When asked about his plans, Winter responded with "patience." Hadad’s representatives stated he is considering entering politics, actively discussing and meeting with various figures, and will make a decision soon.