Bennett Advisor Criticizes Ofer Winter Over Potential Appointment of Eli Feldstein

Lior Horev, strategic advisor to former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, sharply criticized Ofer Winter on Monday evening over reports that Winter may have appointed Eli Feldstein as his advisor. Horev stated that if this appointment did occur, it would represent a serious moral failure. He began by acknowledging that people can agree or disagree with Winter, describing him as a tough officer, patriot, and defender of the land. However, Horev then issued a conditional but severe rebuke, saying that if Winter indeed took Feldstein as an advisor, it would reveal a "deep internal window to moral laxity," accusing Feldstein of being a "middleman in hostage blood" and consenting to the sale of the country to Qatari interests.

Horev contrasted his initial respectful description of Winter with the harsh implications he attributed to the possible Feldstein appointment. His criticism linked the choice to broader allegations involving hostages and Qatar's influence. Horev carefully framed his comments as conditional, using "if he took" rather than confirming the appointment or providing further details about their relationship.

This public denunciation highlights ongoing tensions within Israeli political and security circles regarding alliances and advisory appointments, especially those connected to sensitive issues like hostages and foreign influence. No official confirmation of Feldstein's advisory role has been made, and the situation remains under scrutiny.