Former IDF Officer Warns Gadi Eisenkot's Security Views Threaten Israel

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Eliav Dikstein sharply criticized former IDF Chief of Staff and Defense Minister Gadi Eisenkot's political and strategic views in a radio interview on Tuesday morning. Speaking to Avi Ratzon on Galei Yisrael, Dikstein acknowledged Eisenkot as a respectable individual and expressed a desire for him to be part of a broad national government. However, he firmly opposed Eisenkot leading the country, citing his belief that Eisenkot's security and foreign policy approach is rooted in outdated left-wing ideas that have failed.

Dikstein recalled an early meeting with Eisenkot, during which Eisenkot reportedly used a map to divide Jerusalem, reflecting his adherence to the Oslo framework. Dikstein argued that this approach is obsolete and dangerous, warning that establishing a Palestinian state would set Israel back and pose a security risk. He emphasized the need for leadership that has moved beyond these old concepts, especially in light of the recent October 7 attacks.

Concluding, Dikstein stated his preference for an experienced prime minister who has adopted a new, sober security perspective post-October 7, rather than a supposedly new leader who clings to the failed Oslo mindset, which he believes could lead to further security disasters.