Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a warning that the newly-formed 'People of Israel' party, led by Ofer Winter, might pose a threat to the right-wing bloc in upcoming elections. Netanyahu expressed concerns that the party could cause a dilution of votes or push one of the allied parties below the electoral threshold.
In an interview with Channel 14, Netanyahu stated that Winter's party is not drawing supporters from the voter bases of Naftali Bennett or Avigdor Lieberman, but rather competing within the right-wing electoral base itself. He urged Winter to meet him promptly to coordinate efforts and avoid weakening the bloc.
Winter responded by dismissing these warnings, asserting that his party is 'part of the right-wing bloc' but operates independently and suggested that the current government's performance is the real threat to the bloc.
Winter criticized the government for its failures in dealing with Hamas, allowing the influx of hundreds of aid trucks into Gaza, and not enlisting Haredim. He called for the emergence of new leadership that was not involved in the setbacks of October 7.
Winter, a former Israeli army general, launched the 'People of Israel' party on August 25, positioning it as a new right-wing force. Recent polls indicate the party may secure seats in the Knesset; however, it competes over a voter base also contested by other right-wing parties, notably the 'Religious Zionism' party.
Despite the tension, Winter has previously announced his support exclusively for Netanyahu as the head of government post-election, confirming his allegiance to the right-wing bloc.