Former IDF Chief Gadi Eisenkot Supports Unity Government to Strengthen Israel Amid Crisis

Gadi Eisenkot, former Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces and current Knesset member from the Yesh Atid party, indicated openness to joining a unity government following the elections. Speaking at the East Galilee Conference in memory of Elad Arlich at Kiryat Shmona University on Monday, Eisenkot emphasized his strong belief in national unity and his commitment to ensuring Israel's victory. "I will do everything to prevent one side from winning alone," he said.

However, Eisenkot criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's call for unity, highlighting a contradiction between Netanyahu's Saturday night appeal and his divisive actions the following day. Eisenkot accused Netanyahu of pursuing policies that deepen societal divisions, including opposing universal military service, promoting an exemption law, initiating a politically motivated investigative committee, and continuing a controversial judicial reform. Eisenkot stressed that true unity requires action, not slogans, and pointed to the ongoing strain on the IDF, which currently faces a shortage of 15,000 soldiers.

Eisenkot also called for a state commission of inquiry into the events of October 7, asserting that all Israeli patriots should demand such an investigation and a fundamental change in direction. He criticized Minister Bezalel Smotrich's claim that hostages returned "thanks to him," stating that Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir's positions in the security cabinet delayed the war's end by misprioritizing efforts.

Addressing security on Israel's northern and southern borders, Eisenkot warned against focusing solely on central Israel and stressed the importance of strengthening the periphery, including the north, Negev, and Arava regions. He advocated for the Lebanese army to assume responsibility in Lebanon and called for the IDF to maintain freedom of action in the Gaza border area, warning against being constrained while Iran and Hezbollah escalate attacks.

Eisenkot condemned the Knesset for focusing on what he called a "corrupt double deal" instead of bolstering the IDF amid a critical time when only 48% of 18-year-olds enlist. He urged the establishment of a constitution before Israel's 80th anniversary, emphasizing that certain issues, such as strengthening the military, should transcend political debate and be guided by a Zionist vision.