Gadi Eisenkot's 'Yashr!' Party Unveils 'Honor List' for Knesset Election
The 'Yashr!' party, led by former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot, has announced its 'honor list' of candidates for the upcoming Knesset elections. The list features prominent figures representing various aspects of Israeli society and its recent challenges, particularly the aftermath of the October 7th attacks.
At the 120th position is Ohad Ben Ami, a survivor of Hamas captivity who was held for 491 days in Gaza after being abducted from Kibbutz Be'eri on October 7th. His wife Raz was released after 54 days. Ben Ami has been active in advocating for the release of all hostages.
Other notable figures include Maj. Gen. (res.) Gideon Sheffer, a decorated fighter pilot and former commander of Squadron 119, who was a POW in the Yom Kippur War. Also on the list are Shira and Eli Albag, parents of abducted observer Noa Albag, who became central figures in the hostage rescue efforts. Yoni Levi, father of abducted observer Naama Levi, also joins, having been a prominent advocate for hostage families. Sapir Zohav Hamami, widow of Col. Assaf Hamami who fell on October 7th, is included for her efforts to return hostages and fallen soldiers. Hertzel Gershtein, widow of Brig. Gen. Erez Gershtein, a Golani Brigade commander killed in Lebanon in 1999, represents legacy and leadership.
The list also includes Adina Bar-Shalom, daughter of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef and founder of the Jerusalem College for Haredi Women, recognized for her work in integrating Haredim into higher education and employment. Maj. Gen. (res.) Gideon Abbas, a pioneering Druze officer and father of a fallen soldier, is also featured. Economist Prof. Manuel Trajtenberg, former head of the National Economic Council, and veteran statesman Dan Meridor, a former Justice Minister and Finance Minister, round out the list.
Eisenkot stated that the honor list tells the story of Israel and the deep need for societal healing. He emphasized that the individuals represent dedication to national security, public service, education, economics, and bridging societal divides. He highlighted the families who fought for their abducted loved ones and those who paid a heavy personal price for Israel's security, embodying the Israeli spirit of service, responsibility, and love for the country. The party aims to bring this spirit to the next government, demanding accountability, investigating failures, rebuilding the nation, and restoring trust between citizens and leadership.
