KKL Chairman Il Ostrinsky Publicly Endorses Gadi Eizenkot for Prime Minister

Il Ostrinsky, chairman of the Jewish National Fund (KKL), has issued a significant public endorsement of former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot for Israel's upcoming prime ministerial election. Ostrinsky called on the public to rally behind Eizenkot, emphasizing the need to restore foundational Israeli values amid societal division and institutional erosion. He highlighted Eizenkot's leadership qualities as "Zionist, ethical, liberal, pragmatic, humble, attentive, and humane," stating, "We have found the leader we need."

Ostrinsky praised Eizenkot's extensive security and social experience, noting his role in redefining deterrence through the "Dahiya Doctrine" and his upbringing in Israel's periphery, which equips him to address social disparities. He also commended Eizenkot's responsible leadership during crises, referencing his frontline involvement after the October 7 attacks and his subsequent departure from government to openly criticize failures. Ostrinsky underscored Eizenkot's personal experience with bereavement as a source of his sensitive and judicious national decision-making.

Sharing insights from his travels across Israel in his KKL role, Ostrinsky contrasted Eizenkot's visible presence in northern conflict zones like Kiryat Shmona and Nahariya with the absence of other senior government officials. He concluded with a call to action, urging voters to decisively support Eizenkot to replace the current government and bring healing after recent national tragedies and turmoil. "Look at Gadi Eizenkot, this is the man. Believe in him, I believe in him. Join us, let's win," Ostrinsky declared.

The endorsement comes amid political shifts, with polls showing Prime Minister Netanyahu widening his lead and former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett's support declining to single digits.