Senior Netanyahu Ally Says IDF Deputy Commander Winter Is Untrustworthy

A senior figure close to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed distrust toward IDF Deputy Commander Brigadier General Ofer Winter, who is reportedly considering running in the upcoming elections. The official told Kan News that Winter is "our Silman," implying he is a problematic insider. Netanyahu himself has recently voiced doubts about Winter's loyalty, citing concerns that Winter would not heed his leadership.

Brigadier General Winter is contemplating forming a new religious-secular party that would advocate for a right-wing government including parties from the opposing bloc, which likely fuels Netanyahu's suspicion. Winter also intends for his party to feature only new faces, excluding current politicians.

In response to the report, the Prime Minister's Office stated that relations with Winter remain excellent. Winter has not issued any comment. Separately, the Likud central committee approved Netanyahu's request for eight reserved spots on the party list. Additionally, Naftali Bennett declared he would label Qatar a hostile state in the next government.