Retired Brigadier General Winter Secretly Meets Netanyahu During War, Launches New Political Party
Retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held several secret meetings during the recent war, according to a report on Tuesday evening. Netanyahu reportedly concealed these meetings from both the military and the security cabinet, conducting them in "safe houses." During these encounters, Winter presented plans for the conquest of Gaza to Netanyahu. Despite this, Netanyahu later launched a strong public attack against Winter, with Netanyahu's circle labeling Winter as "the biggest threat in the upcoming elections."
After months of speculation, Winter officially entered politics by announcing the formation of a new party called "Your People Israel," which will run in the upcoming Knesset elections. Winter emphasized the need for a broad right-wing government and new leadership to replace those in power since October 7. Journalist Netali Shem Tov, who was evacuated from Metula during the war, was the first to join Winter's party, praising him as a courageous leader both on and off the battlefield. Other new members include public diplomacy activist Yosef Hadad and Leli Deri, who lost her son Saadia in Gaza.
Earlier this month, Winter was recorded discussing his political stance and the high likelihood of Netanyahu losing the elections. He predicted that Gadi Eizenkot could become prime minister with Mansour Abbas's support due to a significant shift away from the current right-wing government, partly because of issues with the ultra-Orthodox public. Winter stressed the importance of bringing new, trustworthy figures into politics who have not previously served.
Winter also criticized the dismissal of Central Command Chief Avi Blot by Defense Minister Israel Katz, calling it a severe blow to public trust. Winter defended Blot as a key figure in advancing sovereignty and protecting settlements, condemning the manner of his firing as inappropriate and damaging to public confidence.
