Eisenkot Slams "Racist" Campaign Against Arab Citizens, Vows to Form Government
Translated & summarized from Channel 13 by baba
Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, criticized a "racist and violent" campaign against Arab citizens during the election. He stated Arab citizens are part of Israel's story and condemned attempts to defame them. Eisenkot is actively pursuing the formation of an emergency government based on four principles, engaging with potential partners. He also highlighted the need for government oversight during the transition period.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Gadi Eisenkot condemned a "racist and violent" campaign against Arab citizens during the election.
- Eisenkot stated Arab citizens are part of the Israeli story and should not be defamed.
- He is working to form an emergency government with parties agreeing to four core principles.
- Eisenkot met with Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss government oversight during the transition.
- He denounced a "vicious and ugly campaign" targeting his party's lawmakers and their families.
Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, on Friday condemned what he described as a "racist and violent de-legitimization campaign" targeting Arab citizens of Israel during the election campaign, fueled by the outgoing prime minister and his associates for political gain. Eisenkot asserted that the prime minister must govern all citizens, including those who did not vote for him, stating, "Arab citizens of Israel are part of the Israeli story." He emphasized that while disagreement with Arab party representatives is permissible, an entire sector should not be defamed. Eisenkot also addressed comments made by Miriam Peretz, mother of MK Elissef Peretz, a member of his party. He expressed his long-standing acquaintance with the family and his trust in Elissef Peretz, stating he is not concerned by Peretz's mother's remarks but rather by the "vicious and ugly campaign" targeting Yisrael Beiteinu lawmakers and their families with harsh messages. He stressed that while criticism is part of public service, incitement and threats are unacceptable.
Regarding government formation efforts, Eisenkot announced he has approached all Knesset factions and lawmakers who agree with his four guiding principles to negotiate the establishment of an emergency government under his leadership. He pledged to "turn over every stone" to form a stable government quickly, noting progress in discussions with potential partners while exploring all options. Eisenkot also mentioned his meeting with Benjamin Netanyahu and his military secretary, stressing the need for close oversight of the transitional government due to the security and internal situation, stating he "will not allow a lack of oversight."
