Gadi Eizenkot Fires Back at Netanyahu Amid Political Dispute Over Arab Party Ties

Tensions have escalated in Israeli politics following a sharp exchange between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot. The conflict ignited after Netanyahu released a video accusing Eizenkot of equating Mansour Abbas, leader of the Ra'am party, with pro-Israel advocate Yosef Hadad, suggesting this was an attempt to legitimize future political alliances with the Arab party.

Eizenkot responded with an unprecedented and direct attack on Netanyahu, accusing him of spearheading controversial draft legislation and holding him responsible for a national failure. He labeled Netanyahu "the prime minister of mourning in October" and criticized the prime minister’s efforts to deflect attention from the legislation he promoted against IDF soldiers.

Rejecting Netanyahu’s claims, Eizenkot outlined clear principles for any political partnership, emphasizing the absence of racism or cynicism based on origin or race. He insisted on recognition of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state, adherence to the Declaration of Independence’s values, and the obligation of military service for all citizens.

Eizenkot also defended Yosef Hadad, describing him as a respected fighter and a model for genuine Israeli-Arab partnership, countering the negative portrayals spread against him. He concluded by stating that Hadad exemplifies Arab citizens willing to meet these shared conditions, calling for an end to misleading narratives.