Former IDF Chief Gadi Eizenkot Confronts Far-Right Activist Mordechai David at Tel Aviv Beach

Gadi Eizenkot, former IDF Chief of Staff and current chairman of the Yisrael party, was confronted by far-right activist Mordechai David at Metzitzim Beach in Tel Aviv on August 7, 2026. David accused Eizenkot of wanting to surrender and making a deal "at any cost" shortly after the October 7 massacre. Eizenkot responded firmly, stating he only cooperates with those who have served in the IDF and told David, "You did not serve in the army, go serve and come back to me."

Mordechai David, a convicted criminal, has been involved in multiple incidents over recent months targeting public figures, politicians, and journalists. In January, he blocked the car of former Supreme Court President Aharon Barak, calling him a "dark dictator" in defense of Israeli democracy. He was also suspected alongside Likud activist Rami Ben Yehuda of trespassing at journalist Lucy Aharish’s home. Additionally, David obstructed vehicles of journalist Guy Peleg, former Prime Minister Ehud Barak, and Knesset member Gilad Kariv from the Democratic Party.

David’s harassment extends to home invasions. The family of left-wing activist Sigal Shokron reported that David came to her door wielding a crowbar, knocking and intimidating her. They filed police complaints for trespassing and violence. Shokron expressed fear that this might be the beginning of ongoing harassment, reflecting broader societal tensions in Israel today and lamented that some support such behavior.

This confrontation adds to a series of provocative incidents involving Mordechai David, highlighting ongoing political and social polarization in Israel.