Retired General Ofer Winter Launches Right-Wing Party 'Amcha Yisrael' with Security-Focused Agenda

Retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter announced the formation of a new political party called "Amcha Yisrael" at a conference in Jerusalem on Tuesday. Winter outlined his political, security, and social vision, emphasizing the need for a broad right-wing government and promising to address key national challenges. He described the upcoming elections as a referendum on Israel’s future military strategy and societal priorities, including integrating Haredim and Arabs into the Israel Defense Forces, judicial reforms, and combating crime nationwide.

Winter recounted his military background, including service in elite units such as Sayeret Matkal, Maglan, Duvdevan, and the Givati Brigade, and praised the unity among diverse soldiers during the current conflict. He criticized the political establishment for ignoring threats and called for new leadership untainted by the failures of October 7, 2023. Winter stressed that Israel must never allow a Palestinian state and proposed emigration as the solution for Gaza, warning that any enemy initiating war will pay a heavy territorial price.

The party’s list includes a diverse group of candidates from different backgrounds, including Jews and Arabs, united by a commitment to serve the nation. Winter responded to criticism from the right about his political entry by affirming his clear right-wing stance, citing his family’s expulsion from Gush Katif and his lifelong dedication to right-wing values. He vowed to fight for a united national camp based on love for the entire Land and People of Israel.

Winter concluded by invoking a prayer for success and called on Israeli citizens to support his party in the upcoming elections on October 27, 2024. He introduced Yosef Hadad, a Golani Brigade veteran, as his candidate for Minister of Public Diplomacy, highlighting his commitment to defending Israel’s image worldwide.