Netanyahu Tries to Sway Rival to Quit Election Race

Winter, the chairman of the Am Israel party, also referred to as Amcha Israel, is facing intense pressure as the election approaches. Internal polls and a Channel 12 poll showed his party at 2.8%, which is below the electoral threshold. Netanyahu and Smotrich fear that wasted votes for Winter's party could prevent the right-wing bloc from securing a majority, potentially leading to an opposition government.

Winter reacted with anger to the meeting and rejected the pressure, vowing to continue his campaign. He criticized Netanyahu and Smotrich for what he called an ugly, unethical, and dishonest campaign, asserting that the public wants alternative leadership that takes responsibility and admits failures.