Eisenkot Rules Out Netanyahu Coalition, Demands Haredi Draft

With less than two weeks until the elections, Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the "Yash" party, stated in a weekend broadcast interview that he would not sit with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu under any circumstances. Eisenkot criticized Netanyahu's campaign, which he described as "Right or Palestine" for the past 30 years, contrasting it with his party's vision for a future without draft evasion, a state inquiry commission, universal state education, and a shift in economic priorities away from coalition funds. He emphasized that his party is in a better position than the current coalition. Eisenkot also addressed the issue of conscription for the Haredi and Arab sectors, stating that Arab citizens would integrate into national service, while Haredi men "will have to enlist" and cannot opt for national service instead. Those who serve will receive "endless appreciation," while those who do not will face severe sanctions and be denied state funding. Responding to criticism from Avigdor Lieberman, Eisenkot asserted that his party is leading in polls and that he is working to unite the bloc. He completely dismissed the possibility of a unity government after the elections, especially with Netanyahu, whom he accused of acting for personal rather than national interests and deemed unfit for leadership roles due to involvement in the events of October 7th. Eisenkot outlined four prerequisites for potential future partnerships with Arab parties: recognition of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state, adherence to the Declaration of Independence, mandatory enlistment for all citizens, and designation of Hamas as a terrorist organization to be eliminated. He also criticized the handling of crime in the Arab community, blaming a "failed minister" and a prime minister who diverts budgets. Eisenkot predicted that the Zionist-Mamlachti parties would continue to strengthen and that Yaron Zelekha's Economic party would not pass the electoral threshold, expressing confidence in reaching 61 to 63 mandates. He dismissed the idea of US President Donald Trump intervening in the elections or demanding a unity government. Regarding settler violence in the West Bank, Eisenkot directly blamed Netanyahu for enabling the atmosphere that allows such actions by splitting the police and the Civil Administration, leading to anarchy. Concerning tensions with Iran, Eisenkot saw no change justifying significant military action beyond what has occurred recently, warning that harming the elections would damage national resilience and expressing trust in the Chief of Staff to identify any significant shifts. Despite calling Netanyahu "unfit," Eisenkot affirmed that Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir is obligated to follow civilian directives.