Ram Ben Barak Criticizes Gadi Eizenkot's Lack of Government Experience Ahead of 2026 Elections

Ram Ben Barak, a member of the 'Together' party led by Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid, expressed confidence in securing a high position on the party list for the upcoming 2026 Knesset elections despite discouraging poll results. Speaking on 103FM on August 6, 2026, Ben Barak emphasized his commitment to replacing what he called the "bad government" and dismissed concerns about his political future.

Ben Barak highlighted the importance of parliamentary and government experience, contrasting this with Gadi Eizenkot, a former IDF Chief of Staff and fellow party member. While praising Eizenkot's appeal as an alternative to Netanyahu, Ben Barak criticized his lack of governmental experience, stating, "What Eizenkot lacks is experience in government work, this is not the army. Bennett and the 'Yesh Atid' MKs have that experience."

Regarding the political maneuver of MK Yoav Segalovich, who left 'Yesh Atid' to join Mansour Abbas's Ra'am party, Ben Barak described Segalovich as "a brave man" making a move he believes in, though uncertain of its outcome. He stressed that political judgment should be based on actions rather than religion or nationality.

Ben Barak also acknowledged the current poor polling for 'Together' but expressed hope that the party could reverse the trend by emphasizing the value of experienced leadership. He reiterated his belief that he would be part of the next Knesset and that the party would ultimately form the government.

The interview reflects ongoing tensions within the Israeli political center-left and centrist blocs as they prepare for the 2026 elections, with debates over leadership credentials and coalition strategies intensifying.