Hasidic Leader Endorses Gadi Eizenkot as Future Israeli Prime Minister

At an event held at the Global Center for the Heritage of North African Jewry in Jerusalem, Hasidic leader and retired Brigadier General Hoshea Friedman Ben Shalom publicly expressed strong support for Gadi Eizenkot, leader of the Yisrael party. Friedman Ben Shalom, who served as Israel's Chief Reserve Officer and currently heads the pre-military academy "Beit Yisrael" in Jerusalem, praised Eizenkot as a courageous, honest, and intelligent man, stating, "With God's help, Gadi will be prime minister."

Friedman Ben Shalom emphasized his long-standing personal and professional relationship with Eizenkot, spanning 46 years and including service together under fire. Although he refrained from instructing the public on how to vote, he gave a glowing character testimony, calling Eizenkot a modest genius and highlighting the need for renewed trust and integrity in Israeli politics.

Addressing the broader political crisis, Friedman Ben Shalom noted that leadership change alone would not resolve Israel's societal challenges, stressing the importance of rebuilding honest and hopeful relationships. His endorsement, coming from a figure bridging the Hasidic, Religious Zionist, and senior military communities, signals a significant political backing for Eizenkot. Observers will watch closely to see if this support influences the voting behavior of his followers and students.