Ex-IDF Chief Eisenkot: Leaders on Oct. 7 Must Quit Politics
Translated & summarized from Israel Hayom by baba
Former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot declared that all leaders in positions of responsibility on October 7 must resign from public life. He outlined a vision for Israel as a strong, liberal democracy and proposed a "Service for All" law for mandatory national service. Eisenkot also reflected on his past decisions as IDF Chief of Staff and stated he would not rule out cooperation with the Likud party, but not with individuals responsible for the October 7 failures.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Gadi Eisenkot stated leaders on October 7 must resign from public life.
- He proposed a "Service for All" law for mandatory military or national service.
- Eisenkot called for significant reforms in Israel's education system.
- He supports continued Qatari money transfers to Gaza civilians under strict oversight.
- Eisenkot would not rule out cooperation with the Likud party, but not with responsible leaders.
Former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot stated that any leader in a position of responsibility on October 7 must resign from public life. In an interview with "Maariv LaNoar," Eisenkot outlined his vision for Israel as a strong, liberal, and egalitarian Jewish democracy, emphasizing military strength, educational reform, and a deep investigation into the events of October 7. He also stressed the need to change national priorities to bolster the periphery and empower young people in various societal spheres.
If elected, Eisenkot plans to enact a "Service for All" law, mandating military or national service for all Israeli citizens. He called for a profound change in the education system, advocating for 100% state education and better instruction on behavior, norms, and intolerance for violence. Eisenkot believes the younger generation is improving and needs challenges and encouragement towards higher education.
Addressing the impact of AI, Eisenkot advised young people to develop learning skills and not become solely reliant on technology, encouraging continued reading and intellectual expansion. He urged young Israelis considering leaving the country due to cost of living or security concerns to stay and fight for a better nation, promising to work towards reducing living costs and improving the country.
Eisenkot also reflected on his time as IDF Chief of Staff, admitting he would have changed the deployment and locations of military facilities along the border. Regarding the controversial transfer of Qatari money to Hamas, he supported it during his tenure under the condition of a mechanism ensuring it reached civilians, but noted official warnings about the funds flowing to Hamas's military wing emerged after his departure in 2019, questioning why the transfers weren't stopped then.
While calling for Prime Minister Netanyahu's government to be replaced, Eisenkot did not rule out cooperation with the Likud party itself. He differentiated between the party and individuals who held leadership roles on October 7, stating they must leave politics. Eisenkot also affirmed his commitment to principles over political stability, particularly concerning national interests, and reiterated his stance on requiring Haredi parties to support the "Service for All" law in practice before considering them for government.
