Former IDF Chief Gadi Eizenkot Launches 'Yashar!' Party Election Campaign with National Unity Focus

On June 30, 2026, former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot unveiled the election campaign and comprehensive work plan of his new party, "Yashar!", exactly one year after parting ways with Benny Gantz and the National Camp. The campaign, under slogans "Israel Must Win" and "Getting on the Straight Path!", aims at the prime ministership and presents seven detailed policy tracks covering internal security, economy, education, reservist benefits, and mandatory national service for all citizens.

In internal security, the party proposes establishing a national cabinet led by the prime minister and former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen to combat organized crime, including appointing a dedicated project manager and emergency funding for the police. The plan emphasizes that personal security is fundamental to the state's existence.

On immigration, Yashar! targets absorbing two million immigrants by 2048, with one million in the first decade, promoting a "hybrid residency" model and encouraging Israelis abroad to return, led by former minister Orit Farkash-Hacohen. Economically, the party calls for a deep structural reform prioritizing those who serve and work, spearheaded by economist Shaul Meridor, advocating a shift from crisis management to long-term systemic planning.

Education reforms include creating a national education council to define a core curriculum for all students, including ultra-Orthodox and Arab sectors, decentralizing authority to local governments, and granting autonomy to school principals, proposed by former minister Matan Kahana. The party also plans a 20 billion shekel investment over three years to reward and support reservists and regular soldiers, addressing personal and professional sacrifices with expanded benefits and employer compensation.

A central initiative is a law mandating national service for all Israeli citizens, military or civilian, with only 3% allowed deferment for Torah study. Non-compliance would lead to loss of benefits and criminal sanctions. Finally, the party proposes establishing rehabilitation authorities in northern and southern Israel to address post-trauma recovery, expanding support for veterans and families, and enhancing community-based mental health services.

Eizenkot criticized the cynical use of "national unity" as an election slogan, positioning his party as a serious alternative focused on security, social cohesion, and economic resilience.