Ex-IDF General Winter Claims Netanyahu Backed New Right-Wing Party

Former IDF Brigadier General Ofer Winter, now chairman of the 'Am Israel' party, stated in an interview that he believes Benjamin Netanyahu initially supported the formation of a new right-wing party. Winter, who served as Netanyahu's military secretary, revealed a conversation before the campaign launch where Netanyahu allegedly agreed on the need for new faces in a broad right-wing government. However, Winter claims that after the party's launch, Netanyahu's stance shifted dramatically, describing it as a "180-degree" change driven by fear of the new party's potential.

Winter described the campaign against his party as aggressive and costly, estimating tens of millions of shekels were spent on attempts to dismantle his list. He alleged that opponents targeted rabbis and individuals, including Rabbi Sadan, to pressure him. Winter asserted his faith, declaring, "I am a servant of God, I am not afraid of anything," and quoted scripture, "No weapon formed against you shall prosper."

Addressing his party's low poll numbers, which hover below the electoral threshold, Winter rejected calls to withdraw, arguing that the right-wing establishment, including Netanyahu and Smotrich, is stuck in a "conception," similar to their past belief that Hamas was deterred. Winter claimed his party's internal data and external polls show them close to five Knesset seats, urging public support to become the election's surprise. He stated he would feel excellent if his party didn't pass, having made his best effort, and blamed Netanyahu and Smotrich for "destroying the hope of the people of Israel" through their campaign.

Looking ahead, Winter expressed willingness to serve in a future right-wing government under Netanyahu, despite past tensions, but vowed not to form coalitions with figures like Mansour Abbas or Yair Golan. He stated his ambition for the Defense Ministry to implement a new security doctrine focused on initiative and decisive victory rather than containment, which he believes would also alleviate the strain on the reserve forces and the economy. Winter affirmed that the 'Am Israel' party intends to remain a political force.

During a post-interview panel discussion, the interviewer, Yossi Ben Atar, highlighted Winter's transformation from a potential right-wing leader to a controversial figure. Panelists discussed prior political negotiations, noting that Bezalel Smotrich had made significant offers to Winter, which he refused to avoid being associated with what he perceived as the "conception." The panel concluded that Winter had become the most talked-about person in the election campaign.