Eisenkot Pledges National Unity Government Amid Knesset Swearing-In

Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yachad party, addressed the Knesset on Tuesday, the day of the 26th Knesset's swearing-in ceremony, emphasizing a commitment to national values and service for all Israeli citizens. He stated, "Our moral compass, which we have set in the past year, will continue to guide us. We have a deep commitment to the values of the State of Independence and to service for all citizens of Israel, military, national, or civilian. We will not fold this flag."

Eisenkot reiterated the party's dedication to Israel's security and the "unfulfilled war aim of destroying Hamas's military and governing power" following the October 7th attacks, vowing no compromises. He announced plans to work with coalition partners Yachad, Democrats, and Yisrael Beiteinu, and to extend an offer to all parties supporting their four core principles. Eisenkot stressed the importance of a "union of those who serve" and his commitment to forming a national emergency government as soon as possible, citing the current challenges.

The swearing-in ceremony in Jerusalem marked the beginning of the 26th Knesset, with 46 new members, including 15 from Eisenkot's Yachad party, entering the plenum. The new Knesset also features a record 33 women and the youngest-ever member, 24-year-old Yonatan Shilo. Meanwhile, coalition negotiations are actively underway.

Leaders of the "change bloc" announced a preliminary distribution of key Knesset roles: Matan Kahane is slated to become Speaker, Roy Folkman will head the Arrangements Committee, Avigdor Lieberman will chair the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, and Liran Avishar Ben-Chorin will lead the Finance Committee. Eisenkot met with former Prime Minister Yair Lapid to coordinate efforts for the national emergency government and was scheduled to meet with Yair Golan later in the day.

Discussions also revealed Lieberman's commitment to supporting Eisenkot as Prime Minister, stating, "You will be Prime Minister, I am not asking for this role for myself." He emphasized the need for reassessment, compromise, and flexibility following the election results, a sentiment echoed by Lapid. Naftali Bennett, chairman of Yachad, assured activists that reservists have not been forgotten and that efforts are focused on forming a "Zionist correction government."

In coalition talks, Eisenkot and Lieberman agreed to prioritize negotiations with the Haredi parties before considering a minority government supported by Arab parties. Official talks have begun between Yachad and United Torah Judaism, with attorney Ronen Aviani leading negotiations for Eisenkot with MK Yaakov Asher, following approval from Rabbis Hirsch and Lando, despite pressure from Benjamin Netanyahu.