Joint List Recommends Eisenkot for PM, Aims to Block Netanyahu

The Joint List announced on Thursday its decision to recommend Gadi Eisenkot for the formation of the next Israeli government. The party stated that this move aims to increase the chances of a government change and prevent Benjamin Netanyahu from returning to power. The decision followed consultations among the Joint List's constituent factions, which confirmed it was unanimous. The party will officially convey its position to President Yitzhak Herzog during a meeting scheduled for Thursday evening.

Former Knesset member Sami Abu Shehadeh had previously indicated the Joint List's inclination to support Eisenkot in a statement to Kan channel, before the party's official confirmation. The Joint List clarified that its decision stems from its commitment to preventing Netanyahu's return and fulfilling its pledge to take steps toward that goal.

However, the Joint List acknowledged that the recommendation was not an easy decision. The party noted that the opposition bloc, led by Eisenkot, has not, in their view, done enough to counter Netanyahu's policies, including incitement against Arab citizens and questioning the legitimacy of their political choices. The Joint List believes that supporting Eisenkot will widen the gap in recommendations between him and Netanyahu, thereby enhancing the prospects for a government change and limiting the possibility of a national unity government that would allow Netanyahu to remain in power.

A delegation from the Joint List, including Yousef Jabareen, Ahmad Tibi, Bakar Awwad, Ofer Cassif, and Maha Karkabi-Sabbah, is scheduled to visit the President's residence at 4:40 PM on Thursday to submit their recommendation.