Defying Netanyahu, Ben-Gvir warns Smotrich alliance could cost him votes to new far-right party

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for unity among the far-right Otzma Yehudit and Religious Zionism parties ahead of the elections. However, Itamar Ben-Gvir, leader of Otzma Yehudit, has rejected the move. According to Haaretz, Ben-Gvir's aides claim that Religious Zionism leader Bezalel Smotrich is driving away electors, particularly ultra-Orthodox and Mizrahi voters, toward Ofer Winter's new People of Israel party.

Ofer Winter, a former Brigadier General, has stated that his party will only recommend Netanyahu for prime minister, despite saying they do not work for any person, only for the people of Israel. Winter's party is seeking support from right-wing voters who have become disappointed with the current government, and is expected to focus on security issues and changing policy surrounding haredi military service.

Netanyahu's efforts to unite the far-right parties appear to be facing challenges, with Ben-Gvir warning that an alliance with Smotrich could cost him votes. According to Jerusalem Post, Winter has outlined several key policies, including the integration of haredim into the IDF, voluntary emigration from Gaza, and a revamp of the Public Diplomacy Ministry.

Brief written by urgent.news from Haaretz, Jerusalem Post, Arutz Sheva - Israel National News — 3 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.