Ex-IDF Chief Eisenkot Claims Shocking Findings on Netanyahu's October 7th Conduct

Former IDF Chief of Staff and "Yashar!" party leader Gadi Eisenkot launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, warning of "shocking" intelligence findings regarding Netanyahu's conduct during the October 7th Hamas attack and the initial days of the war. Eisenkot stated in a radio interview that when the full intelligence reviews, including those from the Shin Bet and Military Intelligence Directorate, are published, "the foundations will shake." He asserted that Netanyahu, like other cabinet members, is unfit to lead.

Eisenkot described Netanyahu's demeanor in early war cabinet meetings as "frightened and gloomy," claiming the Prime Minister did not control the discussions, which were often dominated by arguments between Eisenkot and then-Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Eisenkot recalled Netanyahu approaching him on the day of the crisis, saying, "You saved us yesterday," yet now Netanyahu falsely claims Eisenkot opposed the invasion of Gaza, when it was Likud ministers who voted against it, Eisenkot alleged.

Eisenkot also confirmed reports of a warning call received by the Prime Minister's office prior to the October 7th attack, though he was unsure if the source was from the UAE. He stated that a very senior source conveyed information to the Prime Minister's office, which received it but took no action. Eisenkot emphasized that he and Benny Gantz felt they were "saving the country" in the initial weeks of the war.

Eisenkot unequivocally ruled out serving in a future government under a rotation agreement with Netanyahu, whom he accused of dereliction of duty as the commander-in-chief on October 7th. These remarks come amid a heated election campaign, with Eisenkot's "Yashar!" party leading in polls, though Netanyahu's bloc has recently gained a slight advantage in potential coalition seats.