Gadi Taub Warns Of Ofer Winter's Political Bid Threatening Israeli Right-Wing Unity

Israeli media figure Gadi Taub sharply criticized politician Ofer Winter on Monday, warning that Winter's political maneuvers could endanger the entire right-wing bloc in Israel. Taub asserted that Winter is not aligned with the right and that anyone undermining the bloc's chances is effectively not right-wing. He emphasized that his concerns are independent of any briefing from Prime Minister Netanyahu's office and stem from observations made months ago.

Taub recounted that after hearing Winter speak about the importance of unity at a right-wing conference, he doubted Winter's readiness to confront the left. In late May, Taub invited Winter for an interview on his program "Shomer Saf," but Winter declined and instead met him in Ramat Gan. According to Taub, the meeting involved much talk but no concrete plans. Taub also noted that Winter has not engaged with established right-wing parties or agreed to form a joint new party with prominent right-wing figures, questioning why Winter has not allied with Bezalel Smotrich.

Taub described Winter as a lone operator unwilling to commit, highlighting that Winter refuses to meet with Netanyahu, the right-wing bloc leader. He also mentioned that at least one of Winter's donors opposes Netanyahu, concluding that Winter is playing a solo game that jeopardizes the entire right-wing camp. Taub speculated on Winter's political future, suggesting possible alliances with Avigdor Lieberman or Gilad Erdan, or attempts to create a right-wing bloc excluding Netanyahu.

He further hypothesized that Winter's strained relations with Netanyahu might stem from Netanyahu's lack of support when Winter was pushed out of the military, implying a motive of personal revenge. Taub contrasted this with Lieberman, who had tried to assist Winter and previously undermined the right-wing bloc for political reasons. Taub stressed these are only speculations and invited Winter to respond or demonstrate that these claims are false.