Gadi Eizenkot Tells Mordechai David to Serve in Army Before Engaging in Political Debate

Gadi Eizenkot, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, was filmed on Friday having a tense exchange with right-wing activist and convicted criminal Mordechai David at a beach. David approached Eizenkot, attempting to record himself asking questions about Eizenkot's stance following the October 7 massacre. Eizenkot refused to answer directly, stating, "I only cooperate with those who have served in the army." When David accused Eizenkot of wanting to surrender after the massacre and criticized his current opposition to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Eizenkot reiterated, "You did not serve in the army, go serve and then come back to me." David then questioned Eizenkot's political alliances with Mansour Abbas and Sami Abu Shehadeh, but Eizenkot did not respond. In another video from the encounter, Eizenkot placed his hand under David's chin and said, "Make sure Netanyahu does not go again with Abbas," responding to David's question about forming a government with Abbas and Abu Shehadeh.

Mordechai David is known for harassing figures opposed to the current government and has been supported by politicians including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. Over recent months, David has confronted journalist Anat Kam, former spy convict, and sports commentator Eyal Berkovich. He also harassed singer Naor Narkis, a judge in Netanyahu's trial, and journalist Lucy Aharish by shouting at her home with supporters. Additionally, David insulted and blocked the car of retired Supreme Court President Aharon Barak.

This confrontation highlights ongoing tensions within Israeli political and social spheres, especially regarding military service and political alliances. Eizenkot's firm stance on military service as a prerequisite for political discourse reflects broader debates in Israeli society. The incident also underscores the volatile atmosphere surrounding Netanyahu's government and its critics.