Gadi Eizenkot Cautions Against Declaring Qatar an Enemy State Without Security Consultation

Gadi Eizenkot, chairman of the Yisrael party and former IDF Chief of Staff, expressed reservations about Naftali Bennett's pledge to declare Qatar an enemy state on his first day as prime minister. Speaking during a visit to Kibbutz Nir Oz, Eizenkot emphasized that such a decision carries significant political and security implications and requires thorough professional analysis and consultation with all security agencies, including the Mossad, Shin Bet, and the National Security Council. He warned against treating this as an election gimmick or slogan.

Eizenkot acknowledged Qatar's negative role toward Israel, particularly its support for Hamas and influence in Gaza, agreeing with Bennett's criticism of Doha. However, he insisted that Israel must carefully evaluate its policy toward Qatar and make structured decisions rather than hasty political declarations. His comments came a day after Bennett vowed to exclude Qatar from any involvement in Israeli decision-making due to its central role in strengthening Hamas.

During the visit, alongside Gilad Moses, a former captive, Eizenkot reiterated his commitment to establishing a state commission of inquiry into the events of October 7 if he forms the next government. When asked about potential appointments, including whether Yair Golan might serve as defense minister, Eizenkot refrained from commitments, stating it was too early to discuss cabinet roles and emphasizing the need to focus on winning the election and forming a "Zionist and national government."

Regarding the security situation in the south, Eizenkot stated he has never seen Hamas as a partner for a long-term agreement, describing it as a terrorist organization that must be defeated and dismantled. On the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, he said the focus should be on combating terrorism and protecting residents rather than pursuing permanent solutions now. He also criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for trying to monopolize the image of being Israel's sole guarantor of security despite the October 7 attacks.