Yosef Haddad registered a party and is holding talks, including with Ofer Winter
Advocacy activist Yosef Haddad is behind the application to register the "Israel Amitza" ("Brave Israel") party and is in contact with former Givati Brigade commander Ofer Winter, who is also considering forming a political platform. Haddad's name was recently mentioned as a potential candidate for a reserved spot in the Likud.
It has come to the attention of Ynet that advocacy activist Yosef Haddad is behind the application recently submitted to establish a party named "Israel Amitza" ("Brave Israel"). While his name does not appear in the official documents, sources familiar with the process confirm that the list was created on his initiative. Ahead of the October elections, Haddad explored several options for entering the political system, and his name was recently mentioned as a possibility for a reserved spot in the Likud.
According to sources, Haddad is holding talks regarding a partnership with Brig. Gen. (res.) Ofer Winter, who is also working to establish a political platform. With only three weeks remaining until the lists for the 26th Knesset elections close, those currently on the fence are expected to make their decisions soon. Winter continues to maintain ambiguity, though estimates suggest he will announce his plans by the end of August.
The goals listed by the "Israel Amitza" party emphasize the need to "understand the Middle Eastern mentality" and highlight the advocacy front as a strategic arena—messages that Haddad has been promoting intensively in recent years.
"Strategic international advocacy front: establishing a permanent, proactive, offensive, and unapologetic national advocacy array that is an integral part of the State of Israel's national security concept. The party will work to lead the campaign for international consciousness, to present the righteousness of our path, and to expose the lies of our enemies on all global platforms," the party's mission statement reads.
In response to inquiries, Ofer Winter stated: "Patience." A statement on behalf of Haddad noted:
"He has not hidden that he is considering entering political life and has been engaging with this idea recently, holding dialogues and meetings with various figures and examining his steps. Haddad has returned from an advocacy trip in the USA and will continue to act for the benefit of the State of Israel in every way."
Yosef Haddad (41) is a member of an Arab-Christian family from Nazareth. He served in the IDF's Golani Brigade and suffered the amputation of his leg during a battle in the Second Lebanon War. Ofer Winter (55), former Givati Brigade commander and military secretary to the Minister of Defense, is considered one of the most sought-after figures by right-wing parties ahead of the elections.
