Transportation Minister Miri Regev Criticizes Former IDF Chief Gadi Eisenkot's Leadership and Public Statements

Israeli Transportation Minister and member of the Security Cabinet, Miri Regev of the Likud party, launched a sharp public attack on former IDF Chief of Staff and leader of the Yesh Atid party, Gadi Eisenkot, during a radio interview on 103fm. Regev questioned Eisenkot's suitability to lead Israel, expressing surprise and disappointment at his recent public conduct and statements. "I really don't know what happened to Gadi Eisenkot," Regev said, emphasizing that as a former military chief, Eisenkot should understand the limits of public discourse.

Regev criticized Eisenkot's controversial remarks regarding the employment of 150,000 Palestinian workers in Israel and his comparison of Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas to Israeli Arab politician Yosef Haddad. She condemned the comparison, highlighting Abbas's ties to the Muslim Brotherhood and contrasting it with Haddad's status as a wounded IDF soldier. Regev suggested Eisenkot's comments were attempts to gain popularity but lacked responsibility.

When asked about Eisenkot's rising poll numbers, Regev dismissed their significance, expressing confidence in Likud's electoral prospects. She accused Eisenkot of relying on support from the Muslim Brotherhood and extreme left-wing parties, referencing recent statements by opposition figures such as Yair Golan and Gabi Leski. Regev stressed that Likud is not concerned about Eisenkot's growing influence and wants the public to be aware of his past statements and actions within the Security Cabinet. She concluded by asserting that no one currently matches Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's responsibility and capabilities.