Retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter Launches New Party "Your People Israel" Ahead of Elections

Retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter officially announced on August 25, 2026, the formation of a new political party named "Your People Israel" and declared his intention to run in the upcoming Israeli Knesset elections. Winter had hinted at this move earlier with a billboard on the Ayalon Highway. His party presents itself as a largely secular, right-wing Israeli list, contrasting with the religious Zionist party led by Bezalel Smotrich, which draws support from settlements.

Party sources told N12 that Winter’s faction will not align with Smotrich, emphasizing ideological differences and rejecting any coalition with him. They stated that Winter aims for a broad government under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu but opposes a narrow coalition dependent on ultra-Orthodox parties, particularly over conscription issues. Winter reportedly aspires to serve as Israel’s defense minister.

The party’s candidate list includes notable figures such as Yosef Hadad, Netali Shem Tov, Leli Deri, and David Ben Zion Eli Hirschman. A recent News 12 poll showed Winter’s party crossing the electoral threshold with four seats, while Smotrich’s religious Zionist party falls below the threshold. This scenario would expand the opposition bloc to 71 seats and reduce the governing coalition to 49.

Ahead of Winter’s official announcement, Prime Minister Netanyahu appeared to signal concern about the new party, potentially drawing votes from the right and threatening Smotrich’s chances. Netanyahu has criticized small parties in recent campaign ads, though some advisors have suggested he try to court Winter’s support.