Minister Shikli Criticizes Gadi Eisenkot as Extreme Leftist Despite Political Strength

On Monday, Minister of Diaspora Affairs Amichai Shikli responded to the rising poll numbers of Knesset member Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yashar! party. Shikli acknowledged Eisenkot as a worthy political rival but sharply criticized him as an extreme left-wing figure. He highlighted Eisenkot's recent statements at an INSS conference where Eisenkot described Al-Qaeda leader Al-Julani, who violently took control of Syria, as an "opportunity." Shikli questioned how Eisenkot could view Al-Julani positively and criticized his calls for withdrawal from the "yellow line" in Gaza and Lebanon. He also challenged Eisenkot's political experience, noting he has almost no legislative achievements.

Shikli compared Eisenkot to former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, whom he described as corrupt and deceitful. He recalled supporting Bennett initially as a clear right-wing leader opposing Yair Lapid's premiership but accused Bennett of breaking all commitments to voters, including coalition agreements and democratic norms. Shikli condemned Bennett's leadership as causing unprecedented damage to Israel and its democracy.

Regarding internal Likud discussions about potentially canceling or modifying the party's primary election system, Shikli expressed hope for a balanced approach. He anticipated six to eight reserved slots on the party list and supported holding primaries to bring fresh candidates and strengthen the party's grassroots. He emphasized respecting the party members who form the core of the movement and welcomed Prime Minister Netanyahu's desire to add new influential figures.

The article also referenced recent polls showing Eisenkot surpassing Netanyahu and possibly securing a majority, while Bennett's support declines ahead of the 2026 elections.