Reserve General Ofer Winter Signals Right-Wing Party Launch Ahead of Israeli Elections

Reserve Brigadier General Ofer Winter is preparing to officially enter the upcoming Israeli elections, signaling his candidacy with a billboard near the Ayalon Highway stating, "Soon you will have someone to vote for," with a launch date set for August 25. Although the billboard does not display his name or image, sources close to Winter confirm he is behind it and plan to present a party list including both men and women, not limited to the Religious Zionist camp.

Winter has told associates that he identifies with the right-wing bloc and intends to support Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, aiming to help secure a parliamentary majority of 61 seats. However, he clarified he does not intend to serve under Benny Gantz, even if Gantz leads the largest party. This positioning places Winter clearly within Netanyahu's camp but outside the so-called "third bloc."

A recent News 12 poll indicates Winter’s party would not pass the electoral threshold, polling at 2.5%, similar to Bezalel Smotrich’s 2.7%. The poll suggests Winter’s entry could cause Smotrich to fall below the threshold, potentially reducing the right-wing bloc’s overall strength. This fragmentation risks lowering the bloc’s seat count, complicating Netanyahu’s coalition-building efforts.

Winter’s move follows other political figures like Hili Tropper and Yoaz Hendel announcing their candidacies. There are ongoing talks about possible alliances involving Winter, Yosef Hadad, and Leli Deri, though Winter has urged patience regarding these negotiations. The political dynamics ahead of the elections remain fluid, with Winter’s announcement adding a new element to the right-wing landscape.