Netanyahu Condemns Ex-IDF Chief Isenkoft for Comparing Israeli Arab Veteran to Mansour Abbas

Gadi Isenkoft, chairman of the "Yashar!" party, sparked controversy in an interview with Channel 13 on Wednesday when he refused to rule out a coalition partnership with Mansour Abbas, leader of the Ra'am party. Isenkoft criticized the Likud party for endorsing Yosef Hadad, an Israeli Arab and IDF veteran, while opposing cooperation with Abbas, accusing Netanyahu of a divide-and-rule strategy that excludes 21% of Israel's Arab citizens.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded sharply on X (formerly Twitter), condemning Isenkoft's comparison between Hadad and Abbas. Netanyahu highlighted Hadad's service and sacrifices for Israel, contrasting them with Abbas, whom he described as a supporter of Hamas and a denier of Israel's legitimacy. Netanyahu emphasized his commitment to forming a broad national government with those who recognize Israel as the Jewish nation-state, rejecting reliance on Arab parties like Ra'am.

Yosef Hadad, CEO of the "Arabs for Each Other" association and a prominent pro-Israel advocate, also strongly rejected the comparison. He clarified that aside from their shared Arab identity, he and Abbas have nothing in common. Hadad criticized Abbas's party for alleged ties to organizations funding terrorism and stressed his opposition to Arab parties that oppose Israel. Hadad further stated that boycotting Arab parties is not racism but a response to their anti-Israel activities.

Hadad indicated he is considering entering politics but has not made a final decision. The exchange underscores ongoing tensions within Israeli politics regarding coalition-building with Arab parties and the broader debate over Arab-Israeli identity and loyalty.