Ex-IDF Chief Eisenkot Slams Netanyahu's War Strategy, Vows to Defeat Hamas
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's war strategy, stating Hamas remains in control of Gaza and is rearming. Eisenkot accused Netanyahu of strategic failure and political self-interest, vowing that if elected, he would dismantle Hamas rule within 18 months. He pledged to implement a clear strategy for Gaza, drawing on his military experience to achieve security for Israel.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Gadi Eisenkot criticized Prime Minister Netanyahu's war strategy, calling it a "resounding strategic failure."
- Eisenkot stated that Hamas remains the sovereign power in Gaza and is rearming three years after October 7th.
- He pledged to dismantle Hamas rule in Gaza within 18 months if elected Prime Minister.
- Eisenkot accused Netanyahu of being "subservient" to coalition partners and Hamas.
- He promised to implement a clear national strategy to ensure Israel's security.
- Eisenkot drew on his past military successes to bolster his claims of capability.
Former IDF Chief of Staff and minister Gadi Eisenkot issued a special statement on Sunday, sharply criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the ongoing war in Gaza. Eisenkot asserted that the return of hostages abducted on October 7th was not an initial war aim, only added later at his insistence. He noted that three years after the Hamas attack, Hamas remains the sovereign power in Gaza, is rearming, and is militarily active, calling it a "resounding strategic failure" of Netanyahu's government.
Eisenkot accused Netanyahu of being "subservient" to coalition partners, draft dodgers, and Hamas, and of promoting Palestinian statehood while simultaneously arming Palestinian factions. He claimed Netanyahu's policies have led to international isolation and that Hamas will remain in power as long as Netanyahu leads Israel. "It is dangerous. Netanyahu has been given countless opportunities to ensure this does not happen, but he procrastinated and delayed, avoiding decisions, captive to his fears and the threats of his coalition partners," Eisenkot stated.
Eisenkot pledged that if elected Prime Minister, he would ensure Hamas no longer controls Gaza within 18 months, either through military action or other creative means to destroy its military wing. He drew parallels to his past successes in combating terrorism in the West Bank and preparing for conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon. He emphasized the need for brave decisions, a national strategy, and a state inquiry into the October 7th failures.
He promised to restore the National Security Council and formulate a plan to dismantle Hamas rule within 150 days of forming a government, working with security chiefs and presenting it to Knesset committees. Eisenkot stated he possesses the knowledge and experience to lead the IDF, Mossad, and Shin Bet professionally, contrasting his approach with what he described as Netanyahu's electioneering slogans. He vowed to bring leadership focused on action, truth, and hope, ensuring Israel's security.
Mentioned
