Ex-IDF Chief Gadi Eizenkot Refuses to Discuss War with Non-Veterans Amid Election Campaign

During a campaign event on August 7, 2026, at Metzitzim Beach aimed at engaging young voters, Gadi Eizenkot, chairman of the Yisrael party, was approached by right-wing activist Mordechai David. David asked Eizenkot about his alleged willingness to negotiate with Hamas shortly after their attack, referencing a claim that Eizenkot wanted a deal "at any cost." Eizenkot responded that he only engages in discussions with those who have completed military service, telling David, "Go serve and come back to me."

Earlier that week, David had also caused a disturbance outside a private event hosted by former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen. David waited outside to confront Cohen after the event, prompting attendees to call police who removed him from the scene. This was not the first incident involving disruptions at Cohen's events; weeks prior, another participant accused Cohen of authorizing harsh interrogation methods against Jewish detainees during his tenure, specifically referencing the Amiram Ben-Uliel case linked to the Duma family murders. The confrontation escalated into a loud dispute nearly turning physical, though Cohen himself did not intervene and resumed his talk once order was restored.

Eizenkot's firm stance against engaging with those who have not served in the military highlights ongoing tensions within Israeli political discourse, especially concerning security and military service. The incidents involving David and Cohen reflect the charged atmosphere surrounding security debates and political campaigning in Israel ahead of upcoming elections.