Gadi Eisenkot Slams Bennett, Liberman Over 'Old Politics'

Gadi Eisenkot, a leading candidate in the polls, has sharply criticized fellow opposition leaders Naftali Bennett and Avigdor Liberman following their recent meeting. Eisenkot described their actions as "old politics of tricks" that harm their chances of winning, stating, "This is something that cannot be accepted." He expressed frustration that Bennett and Liberman have not established clear ground rules for selecting a prime ministerial candidate, which he believes jeopardizes their collective electoral prospects.

Eisenkot emphasized the strength of the current opposition bloc, which he helped organize with four homogeneous parties. He contrasted this with Bennett and Liberman's approach, particularly their initial agreement on surplus votes with other parties before he secured his own. Eisenkot asserted that the public desires change and wants to hear about leadership and decisiveness, not political maneuvering.

In response, Avigdor Liberman's Yisrael Beiteinu party stated that Liberman has no ego and possesses experience, cautioning against showing pressure. The party reiterated its commitment to forming a Zionist government without Benjamin Netanyahu, Arab, or Haredi parties, which would pass a conscription law for all and establish a state inquiry commission. They also subtly questioned Eisenkot's potential partners, suggesting he clarify who they are.

Another senior figure in the "change bloc" criticized Eisenkot's strategy, calling a "big party" campaign a strategic error that could leave them in the opposition, drawing a parallel to Yair Lapid's previous election campaign. Eisenkot also rejected the idea of a rotation government, arguing that a prime minister should be elected for a full four-year term to implement plans.

Eisenkot also addressed Ofer Winter, a former senior military officer, expressing confusion over his chosen political path and perceived contradictions. While acknowledging Winter's military background and his own role in promoting him, Eisenkot questioned Winter's alignment and his confrontational public image, suggesting Winter was previously spreading fear among brigade commanders about potential casualties.