Gadi Eisenkot Slams Netanyahu, Family for 'Betrayal Theory' Post-Oct. 7

National Unity Party chairman Gadi Eisenkot has launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his family, accusing them of "constantly spreading lies" and fostering a "betrayal theory" regarding the October 7th Hamas attacks. Speaking to 103FM, Eisenkot asserted that Netanyahu's success is Israel's disaster, claiming the Prime Minister "lies at every step" and undermines public trust in state institutions by promoting the idea of betrayal rather than acknowledging deep negligence.

Eisenkot, who served as IDF Chief of Staff, stated that it took him nine days to convince the cabinet and Netanyahu to include the return of hostages as a war aim. He also revealed that he personally delivered a letter to Netanyahu on August 16th, six weeks before the October 7th attacks, warning of a potential Hamas offensive. The only response he received was a formal acknowledgment from then-National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi, while Netanyahu allegedly had others dismiss Eisenkot's concerns as "panic-mongering."

Addressing recent polls showing a decline for the opposition bloc, Eisenkot attributed this to "fluctuations" and the entry of new parties. He expressed confidence that opposition parties are coordinating and will hold meetings soon, aiming to defeat the "failed government." Eisenkot also clarified his stance on potential alliances, stating that any Arab party seeking to join him must recognize Hamas as a terrorist organization to be dismantled, a condition he believes no current Arab party meets.

Regarding the Elor Azaria case, Eisenkot accepted President Herzog's decision to pardon the soldier, emphasizing the importance of IDF values and an independent justice system. He contrasted Netanyahu's "weather vane policy," which he claims is driven by public opinion, with his own actions to strengthen the IDF. In response, the Likud party accused Eisenkot of lying, stating that hostage return was a war aim before he joined the government and that he opposed crucial actions like completing the Rafah operation and eliminating Hamas and Hezbollah leaders. The Likud further alleged Eisenkot plans to form a "left-wing government" with other opposition figures and Arab parties.