Former IDF Chief Gadi Eizenkot Condemns Government Over Military Draft Law and Security Failures

Gadi Eizenkot, former IDF Chief of Staff and current chairman of the Yisrael party, sharply criticized the Israeli government and its coalition-promoted military draft law during a conference in Dimona on July 1, 2026. Eizenkot stated that those who failed on October 7, referring to the recent security breach, have no moral authority to lecture others. He emphasized that the draft law should have been a given since that date and accused current government members of undermining the strengthening of the Israel Defense Forces amid ongoing regional violence.

Eizenkot condemned what he called "parasitism" that cannot continue, highlighting the anxiety of residents in Dimona and other areas. He explained that he only entered politics four years ago, responding to calls from Benny Gantz and Yair Lapid to break the right-left political divide, a goal he said ultimately failed. He directly blamed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who appointed him as IDF Chief, for failing on October 7 and rejected Netanyahu's moralizing stance.

Further criticizing the government, Eizenkot accused ministers and Knesset members of advancing laws that weaken the military draft and the media, driven by fear of truth and societal division. He called for the establishment of a state commission of inquiry and legislation to strengthen the Negev region instead of the current draft law. Eizenkot warned that upcoming elections will center on the internal question of what kind of Israel citizens want.

He also stated his willingness to join any government that accepts three principles, foremost that Israel is a Jewish and democratic state, and said he would require the Arab public to perform national service. Addressing security concerns, Eizenkot highlighted the loss of control in the Negev and northern regions, stressing the importance of safe travel on Negev roads as part of personal security.