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 officially launched the election campaign for his party, "Yashar!", marking exactly one year since his departure from the "State Camp" and split from Benny Gantz. The event unveiled the party’s comprehensive work plan addressing key areas such as internal security, economy, education, and national service.

Eizenkot criticized the cynical use of the term "national unity" in political campaigns, emphasizing his party’s commitment to genuine unity under slogans like "Israel Must Win" and "Getting on the Straight Path." The party presented seven detailed policy frameworks, including the establishment of a national cabinet to combat organized crime led by former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen, with dedicated emergency funding for the police.

The party aims to absorb two million immigrants by 2048, with former minister Orit Farkash-Hacohen spearheading a hybrid residency model encouraging Israelis abroad to return. Economically, led by economist Shaul Meridor, "Yashar!" proposes prioritizing and rewarding those who serve and work, calling for a systemic long-term economic plan rather than short-term fixes.

In education, former minister Matan Kahana advocates for a national education council to set core curricula for all sectors, including Haredi and Arab communities, while decentralizing authority to local governments and school principals. The party also plans a comprehensive package to honor and compensate reservists and regular soldiers, allocating 20 billion shekels over three years to support servicemembers and their families.

A central initiative is a new law mandating national service for all Israeli citizens, either military or civilian, with only 3% allowed deferment for Torah study. Non-compliance would lead to loss of benefits and criminal sanctions. Additionally, lawyer Inbar Yehezkel presented plans for rehabilitation authorities in northern and southern Israel to address post-trauma recovery and build national resilience.

These proposals position "Yashar!" as a contender for the prime ministership, focusing on restoring security, economic growth, social cohesion, and national service as pillars for Israel’s future.