Israeli Journalist Slams Opposition Campaign for Ignoring Security Credentials

Journalist and commentator Raviv Drucker has sharply criticized the election campaign strategy of Gadi Eisenkot and the center-left bloc, arguing they are failing to leverage their most significant asset. In an opinion piece for Haaretz, Drucker pointed out the opposition's inability to attract voters from the right-wing bloc, noting that polls show Eisenkot and other center-left parties are not succeeding in this endeavor.

Drucker contrasted the current approach with successful past campaigns by the center-left. He recalled how Ehud Barak in 1999 emphasized his security credentials, using images and his background as chief of staff to counter Netanyahu's attempts to portray him as weak. Similarly, Yitzhak Rabin ran in 1992 on the platform of being "Mr. Security."

According to Drucker, Eisenkot's campaign is deliberately downplaying his extensive military background, which includes achievements, wars, and injuries. He questioned why this valuable asset is not being highlighted, suggesting that many former generals would be eager to publicly support Eisenkot, but the campaign is not utilizing them.

Drucker also expressed bewilderment at the current polling paradox, where Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, despite being responsible for what Drucker called "the greatest disaster in our history," an ongoing war, and a perceived decline in personal security and international standing, leads in public opinion regarding who would better handle security matters. Drucker described Eisenkot as one of the most deserving leaders to emerge in Israel.

Despite the current poll numbers, Drucker concluded on a cautiously optimistic note, suggesting that the results do not necessarily indicate a need for new elections or a prolonged transitional government.