Amir Winter Avoids Mentioning Netanyahu in Party Launch Speech, Says Analyst Amit Segal

Amir Winter deliberately avoided mentioning Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in his party's founding speech, according to Channel 12 news analyst Amit Segal. Segal noted that while Winter used many strong words during his address, he did not attack Netanyahu nor acknowledge any meetings with him. This omission appears strategic, as Winter and his team likely tested every word through research groups and polls.

Segal highlighted the delicate political balancing act Winter faces in the coming weeks before the candidate list deadline. Winter must decide whether to commit to sitting under Netanyahu to prevent vote splitting or keep open the possibility of joining a broader right-wing government that could include figures like Avigdor Lieberman and Naftali Bennett. The analyst described Winter's approach as an attempt to gain momentum quickly to avoid being forced into merging or withdrawing from the race.

Winter's maneuvering reflects the complex dynamics within the right-wing camp ahead of the elections, as he seeks to maintain independence while navigating pressures to consolidate votes. Segal concluded that Winter has about two weeks to finalize his strategy and avoid being compelled to unite with other factions.