Likud may change strategy regarding Winter: Party considers pressure or cooperation

Inside the Likud party, a possible revision of the election strategy regarding Ofer Winter is being discussed. Internal polls by Shlomo Filber show Winter is below the electoral threshold, but his possible participation creates risks for Netanyahu's bloc. Meanwhile, the Likud headquarters is trying to increase turnout among its supporters, which could add 2-3 mandates to the party.

Inside the Likud party, a possible revision of the election strategy regarding Ofer Winter is being discussed. As the elections approach, the party is trying to solve two tasks: to win back the votes of supporters who did not participate in the previous vote, and to decide whether to continue pressuring Winter or to reach an agreement with him on joint action. According to data cited by sources in the election headquarters, the current Likud line is to weaken Winter's position in the hope that he will drop out of the race. Internal polls conducted by Shlomo Filber and presented to Benjamin Netanyahu show that Winter is below the electoral threshold, but close enough that his possible participation creates risks. Sources say Winter's withdrawal could reduce the potential result of the right-wing bloc to 61-62 mandates. Some officials consider the current tactic risky, as constant attacks could mobilize additional support for Winter. The party is discussing an alternative scenario: allowing Winter to strengthen his position and reach an agreement on additional votes. In parallel, the Likud election headquarters is trying to increase turnout among its own supporters, which could potentially add 2-3 mandates to the party. A final decision on an agreement with Winter is not required until October 16.