Netanyahu warns his coalition could be ‘brought down’ by Winter, who says ‘real threat is current gov’t’

People of Israel chairman Brig.-Gen. (res.) Ofer Winter met privately with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before founding the party, according to N12 News. The meeting discussed Winter's potential role within Likud, with Netanyahu offering Winter a spot on the Likud list for the upcoming election. Winter initially rejected Netanyahu's offer, stating he intended to run independently and avoid meeting with sitting politicians.

However, a day later, Winter endorsed Netanyahu for prime minister, leaving questions about his future political position open. Winter later clarified his comments, distancing himself from any claims of alignment with Netanyahu or any other individual, emphasizing his commitment to working solely for the people of Israel. As the deadline for party list submissions approaches, discussions of potential mergers between the coalition and opposition blocs are intensifying.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Zehut chairman Moshe Feiglin are reportedly in advanced merger talks, with Feiglin expected to receive a prominent position on the party list. Winter's inclusion in the race has placed Finance Minister Smotrich's party at risk of failing to meet the electoral threshold as an independent entity.

Simultaneously, merger talks are reportedly ongoing between Gilad Erdan, Benny Gantz, and Chili Tropper, all currently outside the electoral threshold. In a separate matter, a recount in Likud primaries in Be'er Ya'akov has resulted in a shift in seat assignments, with Eti Atiya moving from 25th to 35th place, potentially jeopardizing her chances of entering the Knesset. Atiya's spokesperson maintains that an appeal will be filed with the court to contest the outcome.