Israeli reserve General Ofer Winter criticises Netanyahu, says Hamas ‘still standing’

Israeli reserve Brigadier General Ofer Winter has criticised Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, arguing that Hamas remains active despite the war and that significant challenges continue to confront Israel, according to a report by Maariv.

Winter made the remarks amid growing political debate in Israel ahead of upcoming elections and continuing scrutiny of the government’s handling of the wars in Gaza and on the northern front.

“Instead of worrying about the people of Israel, it would be better to worry about the fact that Hamas is still standing, that the Israeli media is not functioning, and that the North is not recovering,” Maariv quoted Winter as saying.

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His comments reflect criticism of the extent to which Israel has achieved its stated objectives in Gaza, which have included dismantling Hamas’s military and governing capabilities.

The remarks also drew attention to conditions in northern Israel, where communities have been affected by prolonged conflict and cross-border hostilities.

Winter’s comments come as security issues remain central to Israeli political debate and as Netanyahu and his government face scrutiny over the conduct and results of the conflict.

The criticism also comes amid reports of political preparations and new directives ahead of Israel’s forthcoming electoral period.

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