Reserve Brigadier General Ofer Winter told associates he is with the right-wing bloc and supports Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, hinting at a political run, according to Israeli media. A sign referencing his entry was hung near the Ayalon Highway.
Reserve Brigadier General (res.) Ofer Winter has confirmed his support for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the right-wing bloc, according to Israeli media reports Wednesday morning. The statement marks a direct political signal from the former IDF division commander, whose entry into politics has been the subject of months of speculation.
Earlier Wednesday, signs hinting at Winter's political run appeared near the Ayalon Highway, and reports indicated he was expected to announce a new party next Tuesday. The Zioneer previously reported on Winter's political deliberations, including on August 10, when Israeli media said Winter would make his final decision and planned a party that would draw votes from National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. On August 5, Channel 14 reporter Avraham Hasson published the names of figures offered to join Winter's party. On July 31, a political commentator publicly urged Winter to join Likud or Otzma Yehudit rather than run independently, calling a separate list a waste of right-wing mandates.
The developments come as Israel gears up for elections on October 27, with the 25th Knesset having completed its full term in July—the first full term in 38 years. Winter, a prominent religious-Zionist figure, has been viewed as a potential force on the right. His stated support for Netanyahu, rather than a challenge to him, suggests he may seek alignment with the Likud-led bloc rather than an independent run that could split the right-wing vote.
It remains to be seen whether Winter will still proceed with the planned party announcement next Tuesday or whether his statement signals a different path—such as joining an existing party within the bloc. No formal political registration or campaign launch has been made public.
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