Eisenkot Meets Netanyahu, Pledges Oversight of Transition Government

Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the National Unity Party, announced Friday that he met with outgoing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his military secretary the previous day to discuss the security situation and efforts to form a new government. In a statement released before Shabbat, Eisenkot emphasized that he would not permit the outgoing government to operate without oversight during the transition period, stating, "The security situation, as well as the internal one, require close supervision of the government during this sensitive transition period." While not detailing the meeting's content, Eisenkot stressed that Israel's security must transcend political considerations and that he expects all officials to uphold this principle.

Eisenkot also reported progress in coalition talks, reiterating his intention to engage with any faction or Knesset member who agrees to his four principles for establishing an emergency government under his leadership. "I am pleased to update that we are progressing in discussions with partners and simultaneously working to exhaust all possibilities," he stated.

Addressing the 26th Knesset's activities, Eisenkot noted that the new parliamentary majority has begun exercising its power, with the establishment of the Arrangements Committee, the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, and the Finance Committee. Legislative processes have also commenced for a state inquiry commission and the repeal of laws he claims have harmed democracy.

Furthermore, Eisenkot condemned what he described as a campaign of threats and incitement against National Unity Party members and their families, including bereaved families. He expressed support for Elisaf Peretz and his mother Miriam Peretz, distinguishing between legitimate political criticism and unacceptable threats. Eisenkot also spoke out against the defamation of Arab citizens in Israel, asserting that the Prime Minister is obligated to all citizens, regardless of their voting choices.

Eisenkot received the mandate to form a government from President Yitzhak Herzog on November 8, with 67 Knesset members recommending him over Netanyahu's 46. Eisenkot had previously canceled a negotiation meeting with Likud on Tuesday following Netanyahu's speech at the Knesset's swearing-in ceremony. The security briefing on Thursday lasted over two hours, after which both leaders agreed to continue receiving updates as needed.