Gadi Eizenkot Prefers New Elections Over Compromising on Military Draft Law

Gadi Eizenkot, chairman of the Yisrael! party and former IDF Chief of Staff, spoke at the Eastern Galilee Conference at Tel Hai University on June 29, 2026. Addressing northern Israel's security, he stressed the need to restore military strength in the north, warning against focusing defense efforts solely between Gedera and Hadera. He emphasized that after the events of October 7, priority must be given to the north, Gaza envelope, Negev, and Arava regions.

Regarding the understanding agreement with Lebanon, Eizenkot stated it must prove effective in eliminating threats, enhancing security, and fostering development in northern communities. He called for a strategic opportunity to fundamentally change the northern reality by demanding Hezbollah's disarmament and severing its ties with Iran. He warned against allowing a repeat of the dangerous new equation where Israel attacks Beirut and Iran retaliates inside Israel. Eizenkot advocated for dismantling Hezbollah's capabilities south of the Litani River and imposing a weapons embargo, while maintaining IDF presence in the security zone until stable arrangements are reached. He insisted the IDF must not be restricted in combat against Hezbollah.

On political matters, Eizenkot said he would prefer additional elections over compromising on the military draft law, underscoring that "without a strong IDF there is no State of Israel." He also revealed plans to establish a constitution within two years, marking Israel's 80th anniversary. Criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Eizenkot highlighted a paradox between Netanyahu's calls for unity and his divisive actions, including opposing universal military service, promoting a draft evasion law, pushing a political investigative committee, and advancing a judicial reform that has deeply divided Israeli society.

Responding to comments by Bezalel Smotrich claiming credit for the return of hostages, Eizenkot said Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir opposed hostage returns and tried to block deals. He called for the publication of official protocols to clarify who said what and when, pending the establishment of a state investigative committee.