Eisenkot Praises Shin Bet Chief, Criticizes Government Appointments
Translated & summarized from Israel Hayom by baba
Former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot praised Shin Bet chief David Zini as an "excellent field officer" but criticized the government's appointment of unqualified associates. He expressed concern that these appointments, particularly within the Prime Minister's Office, will be reviewed in three weeks. Eisenkot also revealed that a crucial early war discussion on a preemptive strike against Hezbollah was not fully recorded, hindering future investigations. He indicated potential support for a government without a clear majority, provided it meets his unspecified principles.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Gadi Eisenkot called Shin Bet chief David Zini an "excellent field officer" while criticizing government appointments.
- Eisenkot expressed concern over unqualified individuals being appointed to government positions, especially in the Prime Minister's Office.
- A critical early war discussion on a preemptive strike against Hezbollah was not fully recorded, Eisenkot stated.
- Eisenkot indicated he might support a government without a clear majority if it has a "complete Zionist majority."
- He aims for his party, "Yash!", to become larger than the Likud to form a strong government.
Former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot described Shin Bet chief David Zini as an "excellent field officer" on Sunday at the "This Generation" conference. However, Eisenkot also voiced criticism regarding the appointment of cronies to government positions, stating that appointees must demonstrate loyalty to the state, not their appointer, and act according to their designated roles. He expressed concern that close associates, rather than professionals, are being appointed, and this practice will be thoroughly examined in three weeks, coinciding with the upcoming elections.
Eisenkot elaborated on his criticism, noting that the issue of unqualified appointments spans various government ministries, particularly the Prime Minister's Office, where individuals lacking professional qualifications and vetting are allegedly being appointed. He also addressed the attempted hijacking of a Flydubai flight to Israel, citing findings from an investigation in the UAE that the Omani co-pilot, Hammam Al-Hamami, planned to crash the plane in Ben Gurion Airport, inspired by the 9/11 attacks. The Indian captain, Smith Machar, is credited with preventing the crash despite being severely injured in the cockpit struggle; he has undergone complex head surgery and his condition is improving.
Furthermore, Eisenkot recounted a critical discussion held three years prior, four days after the war's outbreak, concerning a preemptive strike against Hezbollah. He described it as one of the most significant discussions of the war. Eisenkot expressed alarm that the initial 40 minutes of this crucial debate were not recorded due to the absence of a recorder or stenographer, which he believes will hinder future investigations into decisions made during that pivotal time.
Regarding the formation of the next government, Eisenkot stated he would support a government without 61 explicit supporters if it had a "complete Zionist majority," even if it meant backing a transitional government led by Benjamin Netanyahu. However, his support is contingent on the government adhering to four principles he has set, which he did not detail. Eisenkot also aims for his party, "Yash!", to become larger than the Likud, with the goal of establishing a strong, sustainable government capable of making difficult decisions on issues like state education, a state commission of inquiry, and the conscription law.
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