Gadi Eisenkot Slams Bennett, Liberman Over Political Tactics

Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the "Yashar!" party, launched a sharp critique against Naftali Bennett, chairman of "Beiteinu," and Avigdor Liberman, chairman of "Yisrael Beiteinu," following their meeting. Eisenkot argued that Bennett and Liberman are making a mistake by not establishing fundamental rules for a prime ministerial candidate, which he believes harms their chances of winning. He criticized the "old politics" of making deals to decide who becomes prime minister, stating that the public desires change and that such tactics are unacceptable.

Eisenkot asserted that anyone relying on becoming prime minister with only eight mandates misunderstands the current political landscape in Israel, seemingly referencing Bennett's previous ascent to leadership with six mandates. He firmly rejected the concept of rotation in government, calling it a patent he fundamentally opposes. Eisenkot believes a prime minister should be elected for a four-year term to implement long-term plans and regional initiatives. He also reiterated his stance that Prime Minister Netanyahu and his cabinet were unfit to lead as of October 7th, and that he is resolutely against alternate premierships and the "tricks and schemes" of recent years.

Furthermore, Eisenkot questioned the positions of Ofer Winter, chairman of "Am Israel," pointing out contradictions and asking which bloc Winter belongs to. He expressed difficulty understanding Winter's chosen path and his "combative image," especially given Winter's close ties with Liberman. Eisenkot defended his past decision to block Winter's candidacy for military secretary to Prime Minister Netanyahu, stating that he had presented Netanyahu with a choice between two candidates and that Winter, though a worthy individual, was kept in Tel Aviv for political reasons he could not endorse as chief of staff.

In response, Yisrael Beiteinu issued a sharp retort, implying Eisenkot avoids declaring his future partners to potentially rely on Arab party votes. The party stated its commitment to forming a Zionist government without Netanyahu, Arab parties, or Haredi parties, which would pass a universal conscription law and establish a state inquiry commission. Yisrael Beiteinu urged Eisenkot to clarify his potential coalition partners for the public.