MK Elazar Stern Joins Gadi Eisenkot's Party, Cites Need for Unity

Member of Knesset Elazar Stern has officially left the Yesh Atid party after 11 years to join Gadi Eisenkot's "Yash" party. Stern stated that his decision was not a political calculation for a secure Knesset seat, but rather a long-held belief that Eisenkot is the most suitable candidate for Prime Minister. He had publicly expressed this view in October 2024, even when Eisenkot was still with Benny Gantz's National Unity party.

Stern explained that his departure from Yesh Atid was a gradual and respectful process, and that party leader Yair Lapid was aware of his intentions from the beginning. He cited a feeling that Yesh Atid was too far left and did not adequately accommodate the needs of both secular and religious members within the party. Stern acknowledged that while Eisenkot lacks experience managing government ministries, his extensive service in dozens of cabinet meetings as IDF Chief of Staff and Deputy Chief of Staff gives Stern "eyes closed" trust in his leadership.

Stern believes Eisenkot possesses broad public trust, credibility, and personal example, making him uniquely capable of uniting Israeli society, especially after the events of October 7th. He dismissed criticism of Eisenkot's lack of political experience, arguing his military background provides sufficient strategic understanding. Stern also expressed his desire to become the next Knesset Speaker, aiming to restore decorum to the parliament, which he feels has been degraded under the current Speaker, Amir Ohana.

Regarding coalition possibilities, Stern stated that while the voters of the Likud party are not disqualified, Benjamin Netanyahu must step down. He also addressed the issue of potential partnerships with the Arab Ra'am party, asserting that any partner must accept the principles of the Declaration of Independence, a Jewish and democratic Israel, and service to all. He questioned whether parties like United Torah Judaism, represented by Yisrael Eichler, meet these criteria, citing personal insults he has allegedly received from Eichler.

Stern also criticized the current government's handling of the ultra-Orthodox conscription issue, arguing that funding is being directed to educational institutions that actively discourage enlistment and self-sufficiency. He believes this perpetuates dependency and hinders national service. He strongly disagreed with Netanyahu's assertion that Israel's strategic situation has improved since October 7th, arguing instead that the country is more divided, Hamas still controls Gaza, and relations with the United States have been damaged.