Ofer Winter Reveals New Members Joining His Independent Party Ahead of 2026 Elections

Former IDF Deputy Commander Ofer Winter has officially announced the launch of his new political party, set to hold its inaugural event next Tuesday. Winter, who has declared his intention to run independently in the upcoming 26th Knesset elections, continues to assemble his party list, adding notable figures such as Eli Gino, former head of the Givati Brigade staff during Operation Protective Edge under Winter's command, and Aviv Ezra, founder of the "Generation of Victory" movement.

Winter has previously reached out to prominent individuals like Yosef Hadad and Leli Deri to join his party. Despite recent attempts by political figures including Amir Avivi and Gilad Erdan to negotiate a merger or alliance, Winter has firmly rejected these overtures, emphasizing his commitment to running a standalone party regardless of circumstances.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's camp is reportedly preparing a strategic campaign aimed at discouraging right-wing voters from shifting their support to smaller parties like Winter's. This move reflects skepticism within Netanyahu's circle about the viability of Winter's party and other emerging right-wing factions, as they seek to consolidate votes within the main right-wing bloc.

Winter's party launch and recruitment efforts mark a significant development in the evolving political landscape ahead of the 2026 elections, highlighting the fragmentation and competition within Israel's right-wing political spectrum.