Eisenkot Backs Peretz Amidst Government Formation Talks and Criticism
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, reported progress in forming a government and met with outgoing PM Benjamin Netanyahu. Eisenkot pledged to work with any MK agreeing to his principles and defended MK Elisaf Peretz against a harsh campaign, stating, "Whoever thinks that various envoys and poison will deter us probably doesn't know us well enough." He also criticized Netanyahu for inciting against Arab citizens and vowed to continue coalition efforts.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Gadi Eisenkot reported progress in government formation talks and met with outgoing PM Benjamin Netanyahu.
- Eisenkot defended MK Elisaf Peretz against a "vicious and ugly campaign" of criticism.
- Eisenkot stated, "Whoever thinks that various envoys and poison will deter us probably doesn't know us well enough."
- Eisenkot accused Netanyahu of inciting a de-legitimization campaign against Arab citizens of Israel.
- Eisenkot demanded strict oversight of the government during the sensitive transition period.
- Eisenkot highlighted ongoing Knesset activities, including committee formations and legislative initiatives.
Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, announced progress in coalition-building efforts and revealed a meeting with outgoing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Eisenkot stated his intention to pursue all avenues for forming a government under his leadership, emphasizing that there is no alternative. He reiterated his commitment to engaging with any public representative who agrees to his four core principles, stressing that this is not a mere formality but a genuine invitation to negotiations.
Eisenkot detailed his strategy for government formation as an effort to broaden coalition possibilities and foster new partnerships based on principles and creative cooperation. He also disclosed a meeting with Netanyahu and his military secretary, demanding strict oversight of the government during the transition period, citing national security and internal stability. Eisenkot asserted that Israel's security is paramount and should never be exploited for political gain.
Parallel to coalition talks, Eisenkot highlighted ongoing Knesset activities, including the establishment of key committees and legislative processes for a state inquiry commission and the repeal of laws he deems detrimental to democracy. He declared an end to the previous government's "bullying" tactics and vowed to prevent insults against bereaved families and the misuse of public trust.
Eisenkot strongly defended MK Elisaf Peretz and his family against what he described as a "vicious and ugly campaign" of harsh messages targeting party members and bereaved families. He urged critics to direct their grievances to him, stating, "If anyone has a problem with the path I am charting, I am the address." Eisenkot affirmed his support for Peretz, saying, "Whoever thinks that various envoys and poison will deter us probably doesn't know us well enough."
Furthermore, Eisenkot accused Netanyahu and his associates of inciting a de-legitimization campaign against Arab citizens of Israel for political purposes. He distinguished between disagreeing with Arab party representatives and denigrating the entire Arab population, vowing to prevent such defamation. Eisenkot concluded by pledging to continue his government formation efforts despite difficulties and to provide direct updates on developments.
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