Eisenkot Claims Netanyahu Will Use Any Means to Stay in Power

Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the National Unity Party, stated Sunday at his party's final rally before the elections that he knows Benjamin Netanyahu well and believes the prime minister will "not shy away from any lie or any extreme step to remain in power." Eisenkot cautioned supporters against assuming change is guaranteed, urging them to remember that "change is in danger" until the polls close. He reiterated his call to vote for his party, emphasizing that National Unity must secure more Knesset seats than the Likud party to enable a change in government. Eisenkot asserted that Netanyahu desires a tie to claim he must remain in office, and only a significant lead for National Unity over Likud will bring about the desired change.

Eisenkot also pledged to establish a state commission of inquiry on the first day of a government he would lead, and to form a "national cabinet to combat crime" within a week, initiating legislation. The rally, held in Tel Aviv and attended by several hundred supporters, also included the families of hostages. Eli Elbag, father of Liri Elbag who was released from Hamas captivity, and veteran host Rafi Ginat also spoke.

Addressing Likud voters and coalition supporters, Eisenkot acknowledged the difficulty of choosing differently but argued that the Likud party has strayed from its path. He appealed to them, stating, "The State of Israel depends on you. I am part of you, and you are part of me. Deep down, you also know: Israel cannot continue like this. Israel needs change." Earlier on Sunday, Eisenkot tweeted, "It's either Netanyahu or me. The battle for the largest party is close. We must surpass Likud by a significant margin to receive the mandate to form the government and bring about the victory of the change bloc."