Gadi Eizenkot Reveals Netanyahu's Unusual Request Regarding His Son During IDF Tenure

Gadi Eizenkot, former IDF Chief of Staff and current chairman of the Yisra party, disclosed in a political interview on July 15, 2026, that during his military tenure, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made an unusual request concerning his son Avner, who was serving in the IDF at the time. Netanyahu asked Eizenkot to designate an entire area in the Golan Heights bunkers for protection, a demand Eizenkot found unreasonable and ultimately rejected after investigating the matter.

Eizenkot criticized Netanyahu's leadership, stating that he has lost public trust and the competence to serve as prime minister, particularly highlighting the recent Knesset vote exempting ultra-Orthodox soldiers from arrest, which Eizenkot said undermines Israel's security and military values. He condemned the current government as irresponsible and accused Netanyahu of prioritizing political gains over national security.

Regarding the Shin Bet chief, Ronen Bar, Eizenkot expressed serious concerns about Bar's conduct, especially after reports that Bar's wife intervened to secure lifetime security for herself and their children against Shin Bet recommendations. Eizenkot asserted that any security chief who feels personally loyal rather than loyal to the state should resign immediately.

Eizenkot also addressed his political strategy, aiming to form a broad Zionist government with 63-64 seats, despite challenges in uniting right-wing factions and ultra-Orthodox parties. He rejected claims of courting ultra-Orthodox parties and emphasized his commitment to universal military or national service, including for ultra-Orthodox and Arab citizens. He acknowledged difficulties in securing full coalition support but insisted on leading a government based on a clear Zionist majority.

On political rivals, Eizenkot expressed confusion over Benny Gantz's decisions and distanced himself from accusations that he would rely on Arab parties to form a government. He reaffirmed his opposition to Netanyahu and his cabinet, calling them unfit for leadership. Eizenkot also dismissed attempts by Netanyahu's Likud party to label him as left-wing, underscoring his security credentials and right-leaning positions.

The interview highlighted Eizenkot's firm stance on military and political issues ahead of the upcoming elections, signaling his readiness to challenge Netanyahu's leadership and reshape Israel's political landscape.