Gadi Eizenkot Criticizes Netanyahu Over Controversial Draft Law and Reveals Unusual Security Request

Gadi Eizenkot, chairman of the Yisrael party and former IDF Chief of Staff, sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a televised interview on Wednesday. Eizenkot condemned Netanyahu's handling of the controversial military draft law, accusing him of prioritizing political interests over national security needs. He argued that the law undermines the IDF's readiness and questioned Netanyahu's fitness to lead the country. "This vote proved Netanyahu is losing not only the public's trust but also his competence as prime minister," Eizenkot said, calling the decision to pass the law three months before elections "extremely irresponsible."

Eizenkot outlined his own draft law proposal, which would impose universal conscription across all sectors, including Haredi and Arab populations, abolishing existing exemptions and deferrals. He emphasized four principles: mandatory service in the IDF, national service, or civilian service, with strict penalties for draft evasion and extensive state recognition for those serving. He also denied rumors of political negotiations with Haredi parties, stating he had not met any Shas Knesset members in the past year and accusing them of manipulating Netanyahu into irrational decisions.

The former military chief also criticized Netanyahu's Likud campaign claims that his government would rely on Arab parties, recalling Netanyahu's past meetings with Yasser Arafat and support for territorial concessions. Eizenkot stressed the importance of a clear Zionist majority in the Knesset and expressed his goal to expand the government as broadly as possible.

In a revealing anecdote from his tenure as IDF Chief of Staff, Eizenkot recounted an unusual late-night summons to Netanyahu's office, where the prime minister demanded the construction of a defensive strip in the Golan Heights bunkers. After investigation, Eizenkot learned the request stemmed from Netanyahu's personal concern for his son’s safety. He opposed the measure, citing risks to soldiers and civilians and insisting that Netanyahu's son should not receive special treatment. Eizenkot described the incident as "a bizarre event" that illustrated Netanyahu's security decision-making style.