Reserve Soldiers Demand Cancellation of "Yashar!" Deal with "Democrats"

The leadership of the Likud Reservists Forum has formally requested Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the "Yashar!" party, to immediately cancel a surplus agreement with the "Democrats" party, led by Yair Golan. In a letter sent on Monday, the reservists stated that the alliance with the Democrats constitutes a "severe blow to reservist soldiers."

The forum argued that the political alliance is not merely a technical maneuver. They referenced past controversial statements made by Golan, including remarks about a country that "kills babies as a hobby," asserting that aligning with a party headed by someone who made such comments about Israel and IDF soldiers is unacceptable.

The reservists highlighted their extensive service since October 7th, emphasizing their commitment to defending the country despite personal sacrifices. They noted that many have served hundreds of days on the front lines, alongside wounded comrades and those who did not return home, driven by a belief in their cause and duty.

The forum also linked their demand to recent controversies surrounding the film "Incidental Damage." They expressed disappointment with what they described as the Democrats' "stuttering and support for the film's creators" at a time when the IDF faces international delegitimization efforts. They appealed to Eisenkot's past as IDF Chief of Staff, reminding him of the importance of public support, fighting spirit, and belief in the cause for soldiers.

Concluding their letter, the reservists urged Eisenkot to cancel the agreement, stating, "There are moments when the value consideration must prevail over the political consideration." They demanded, "Cancel the agreement. Draw a red line. Stand with the IDF soldiers."

The "Yashar!" party had previously announced the surplus agreement with the Democrats for the upcoming 26th Knesset elections, framing it as an effort to prevent vote loss within the "change bloc."