Former IDF Chief Gadi Eizenkot Rejects Zero Exemptions Policy, Supports Haredi Military Service
Gadi Eizenkot, former IDF Chief of Staff and current chairman of the Yisrael party, gave an exclusive interview discussing his political and security views ahead of the upcoming Israeli elections. Eizenkot criticized the extreme political calls for "zero exemptions" from military service and the denial of voting rights to Haredim, calling such positions populist and unrealistic. He advocates a "Ben-Gurionist" approach that respects Torah study while supporting a 3% exemption from conscription and insists that tens of thousands of Haredim not studying in yeshivas must enlist immediately to support the IDF.
Eizenkot also addressed his political ties with Shas leader Aryeh Deri, describing Shas as a party with broad Zionist components and refusing to rule out including them in his government if they accept his three core principles: Israel as a Jewish state with a solid Jewish majority, acceptance of the Declaration of Independence, and mandatory military or national service. He criticized Deri's performance in key security decisions, including the Iranian missile attack response and hostage negotiations.
On security matters, Eizenkot expressed concern over the ongoing Iranian threat, noting that despite military achievements, Iran's nuclear ambitions remain unfulfilled and Hezbollah has been rearmed. He called for continued close cooperation with the United States to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and emphasized the need for strict oversight and severing Iran-Hezbollah ties.
Regarding the Israeli judicial system, Eizenkot condemned Justice Minister Yariv Levin's call to defy a Supreme Court ruling, calling it unprecedented and a threat to Israeli democracy. He supports judicial reform, citing low public trust in the courts, but stresses the importance of upholding the rule of law and the loyalty of security officials to the state rather than individuals.
Eizenkot declared his intention to become Israel's next prime minister, positioning himself as a centrist with a strong security background. He aims to replace the current government with a Zionist, state-oriented coalition and rejects forming a government reliant on Arab parties. He also dismissed claims that he is controlled by political figures, asserting his independence and resilience. On election integrity, he warned of threats to fair elections and called for vigilance against intimidation or violence.
In summary, Eizenkot presents a nuanced stance on military conscription, security, and politics, seeking to balance respect for Haredi traditions with national service obligations, while aiming to lead a broad Zionist government focused on security and democratic values.
