Gadi Eisenkot Slams Netanyahu, Rejects Alternate Prime Minister Role

Former IDF Chief of Staff and current "Yisrael Beiteinu" party chairman, Gadi Eisenkot, has strongly criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the concept of an alternate prime minister. In a radio interview on Thursday, Eisenkot stated his fundamental opposition to the role of an alternate prime minister and any rotation government, arguing that a prime minister should serve a full four-year term to implement policies. He asserted that Netanyahu, along with other cabinet members, is unfit to lead, citing their perceived failures on October 7th. Eisenkot claimed that Shin Bet and Aman (military intelligence) investigations into the events of that day, once published, will reveal shocking truths about Netanyahu's responsibility.

Eisenkot recounted his observations of Netanyahu's demeanor in cabinet meetings following the October 7th attack, describing him as appearing "frightened" and detached from discussions. He recalled a cabinet meeting on October 11th where Netanyahu seemed gloomy and disengaged, with discussions largely driven by himself and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Eisenkot felt that he and Benny Gantz were single-handedly steering the country through the initial crisis.

Addressing accusations that he opposed the occupation of Gaza, Eisenkot refuted the claims, stating that Netanyahu himself remembers Eisenkot's crucial role in the immediate aftermath of the crisis. He accused Netanyahu of repeatedly spreading falsehoods, pointing out that Likud ministers, not he, voted against the Gaza occupation. Eisenkot reiterated his firm opposition to rotation governments and what he termed "tricks and schemes" employed in recent years.