Yosef Haddad's party registered - and the connection with Ofer Winter advances

Yosef Haddad's party, 'Israel Amitza', was officially registered today. Meanwhile, negotiations are progressing for a merger between him and Brig. Gen. (res.) Ofer Winter. According to sources familiar with the talks, Haddad is expected to be in second place on the joint list, with Winter expected to lead it. The talks were kept low-profile to minimize political pressure.

Yosef Haddad's party, 'Israel Amitza', was officially registered today (Monday), alongside progress in negotiations for a merger between him and Brig. Gen. (res.) Ofer Winter. According to sources familiar with the talks, Haddad is expected to be in second place on the new list, which Winter is expected to lead. The late announcement was designed to make it difficult to block the move, and the talks were kept low-profile to minimize political pressure. The official goals of 'Israel Amitza' include strengthening Israel's power and security as a Jewish and democratic state, a security doctrine based on understanding 'the Middle Eastern mentality', and making Israeli hasbara (public diplomacy) a strategic front. Haddad, an Arab-Christian from Nazareth and former Golani fighter, has become a prominent figure in Israeli hasbara worldwide. Winter brings a military record and a distinct ideological image. Also being considered is the joining of Lali Deri, a prominent activist on the enlistment issue, who may attract votes from Religious Zionism and Likud. The challenge with Winter is complex for Likud, as he could take votes from the existing right wing while attracting disappointed right-wing voters from the opposition.