Gadi Eisenkot Launches 'Yashar!' Party, Eyes Minority Government with Broad Support

Gadi Eisenkot, former IDF Chief of Staff, has officially launched his new political party "Yashar!" amid rising poll numbers, positioning himself as a leading contender for Israel's prime ministership. The party's launch event featured a campaign kickoff with a new song, highlighting Eisenkot's appeal as a unifying figure promising leadership beyond partisan divides. Despite recent gains, polls show his party's rise mainly draws support from former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett's base, leaving the overall political bloc balance largely unchanged.

Party members, including former Shin Bet head Yoram Cohen and retired generals, expressed optimism about forming a coalition with at least 61 Knesset seats to establish a stable government. They acknowledged challenges ahead, especially in attracting younger voters and bridging gaps with other political factions. Eisenkot's team emphasized their commitment to a "unifying leadership" and readiness to negotiate with various parties, including religious and possibly Arab factions, provided they accept core principles such as Israel's Jewish and democratic character and mandatory military or national service.

The campaign also addresses contentious issues like the military draft, with Eisenkot's party proposing a compromise draft plan involving up to 3% of the ultra-Orthodox population, a significant shift from current policies. While some activists and former Likud supporters have switched allegiance to Eisenkot, skepticism remains about uniting the right-wing bloc or cooperating with Netanyahu's Likud party. Eisenkot's team insists they will engage with all parties based on shared values rather than personalities.

The launch event underscored Eisenkot's promise to bring fresh leadership and practical solutions in security, education, and economy. Party founders and supporters highlighted Eisenkot's rapid political learning curve and contrasted his approach with Netanyahu's long tenure. Although Eisenkot is not the first military leader to pursue the premiership, his campaign seeks to capitalize on public desire for change and unity after years of political division.

Summary: Gadi Eisenkot has launched his new party "Yashar!" aiming to form a minority government with broad coalition support, focusing on unifying leadership and pragmatic policies. Despite rising polls, challenges remain in securing a majority and attracting diverse voter groups. Eisenkot's campaign emphasizes negotiation across political lines, including with religious and Arab parties, based on shared democratic principles and service obligations.

Points: - Gadi Eisenkot officially launches "Yashar!" party, rising in polls as a prime minister candidate. - Party aims to form a minority government with 61 Knesset seats through coalition building. - Eisenkot proposes a draft compromise involving up to 3% of ultra-Orthodox serving. - Campaign attracts former Likud and Labor voters, focusing on unifying leadership. - Eisenkot open to negotiating with religious and Arab parties accepting core principles. - Skepticism remains about cooperation with Netanyahu's Likud despite calls for unity.

Topic: politics

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