Eisenkot Defends Elissaf Peretz Amidst "Vicious Campaign"

Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, has publicly defended Member of Knesset Elissaf Peretz and his family, denouncing what he termed a "vicious and ugly campaign" targeting party members and their families. Eisenkot stated that criticism of the party's direction should be directed at him, emphasizing his trust in Peretz and his own decisions. He expressed a long-standing personal connection to the Peretz family, having known them for nearly thirty years and Elissaf since he was twelve years old, praising their dedication to the nation and land.

Eisenkot revealed that several party members, including bereaved families, are receiving thousands of harsh messages. While acknowledging that criticism of public officials is part of their role, he asserted that there is no place for incitement and threats, stating, "Anyone who thinks that various messengers and poison will deter us probably doesn't know us well enough." He added that if anyone has an issue with his leadership, they should address him directly.

In a broader statement, Eisenkot also addressed his efforts to form an emergency government, reiterating his intention to speak with any public representative who agrees to his four outlined principles. He also spoke out against what he described as a delegitimization campaign targeting Arab citizens of Israel, stating that while disagreement with Arab party representatives is possible, defamation of an entire sector is unacceptable. Eisenkot affirmed his determination to overcome challenges and establish a government to bring Israel to safety.