Smotrich Urges Ofer Winter to Withdraw from Knesset Race, Offering Defense Post

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich addressed Ofer Winter, leader of the "Amcha Yisrael" party, in a special statement, offering to step down from a ministerial position designated for his own party if Winter withdraws from the Knesset race to prevent the division of the right-wing vote.

Smotrich announced that he is willing to forgo a ministerial position in the Ministry of Defense from the quota his party would demand in coalition negotiations. The proposal also includes granting Winter full authorities to establish a voluntary migration directorate for Gaza and a directorate for the recruitment and integration of Haredim, in exchange for Winter dropping out of the race.

The Details of the Offer

1. A ministerial position in the Ministry of Defense.

2. Establishment of a voluntary migration directorate.

3. Establishment of a directorate for Haredi recruitment and socioeconomic integration.

Addressing Winter directly, Smotrich drew parallels to the 1992 elections, warning against splitting the nationalist camp. "People with good intentions split the camp, threw votes into the trash, and brought upon us the cursed Oslo Accords," Smotrich said. "For thirty years we have been licking the bleeding wounds of this disaster."

Smotrich emphasized that current polls clearly indicate the "Amcha Yisrael" party is falling short of the electoral threshold. He urged Winter to exercise national responsibility, assuring him that his leadership and capabilities are needed within the government through a genuine partnership rather than a protest vote that risks right-wing governance.

"I will surrender a ministerial portfolio from my party for you if you withdraw and stop endangering the right. This is my offer, Ofer, and I implore you to accept it," Smotrich stated.