Gadi Eizenkot Urges Serious Policy Review on Qatar, Rejects Political Gimmicks

Gadi Eizenkot, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party and former IDF Chief of Staff, called on Israel to carefully evaluate its policy towards Qatar, warning against using the issue as a political gimmick. Speaking on Wednesday, Eizenkot emphasized that decisions regarding Qatar should be made seriously and based on consultations with security agencies such as Mossad, Shin Bet, and the National Security Council. He acknowledged Qatar's negative role against Israel, particularly in Gaza and international arenas, but cautioned against declaring Qatar an enemy state lightly.

Eizenkot’s remarks appeared to counter statements made by Naftali Bennett, who recently vowed at a security conference to declare Qatar an enemy state on his first day as prime minister. Bennett accused Qatar of supporting Hamas and controlling Gaza’s weapons stockpiles, promising to expel Qatar from Gaza and the Prime Minister’s Office. Eizenkot, who visited the Nirit Oz community near Gaza, reiterated his commitment to establishing a state commission of inquiry into the October 7 massacre if elected prime minister.

When asked about potential defense ministers, Eizenkot declined to comment on party roles, stressing the importance of forming a Zionist, national government focused on victory in the upcoming elections. On security concerns for residents near Gaza, he described Hamas as a murderous organization aiming to establish an Islamic state from the sea to the river and advocated for its dismantling through a prolonged process of demilitarization and strict enforcement of agreements.

Regarding the West Bank, Eizenkot said the discourse must change after October 7, rejecting discussions of permanent solutions or future plans. He criticized Netanyahu’s approach, stating Israel must focus on combating terrorism and ensuring security for residents amid ongoing violence from numerous militant groups. Eizenkot also clarified that unlike Netanyahu, he has never supported a Palestinian state, emphasizing the priority of fighting terror in the West Bank.

Eizenkot’s statements highlight a cautious and security-focused approach to Israel’s regional challenges, contrasting with Bennett’s more confrontational rhetoric towards Qatar and Hamas.