MK Elazar Stern Leaves Yesh Atid, Eyes Joining Gadi Eizenkot's Party

After 11 years with Yesh Atid, MK Elazar Stern announced his departure from the party last weekend, signaling a new political path. In an interview on the program "Meet the Press," Stern revealed that if he remains in politics, he intends to join the party led by former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot. Stern also disclosed that he had previously attempted to bring Eizenkot into Yesh Atid, but the effort was unsuccessful.

Stern described his split from Yesh Atid and leader Yair Lapid as respectful and amicable, despite occasional disagreements over the years. He expressed deep admiration for Eizenkot, emphasizing the former military leader's broad public respect and trustworthiness. Stern argued that Israel needs a moderate and reliable leader like Eizenkot, contrasting him with what he called "political foxes" such as Benjamin Netanyahu, whom he blamed for the country's current social divisions and security failures.

On the issue of ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) conscription, Stern supported creating special service tracks similar to those for athletes and musicians, allowing a minority to continue studying while most serve in the IDF. He stressed the importance of integrating Haredim into national service under conditions that maintain respect and security.

Regarding potential cooperation with the Ra'am party led by Mansour Abbas, Stern said he is open to working with any party that recognizes Israel as a Jewish and democratic state and supports national service. He criticized those who oppose dialogue with Ra'am while accepting alliances with ultra-Orthodox parties, calling such positions hypocritical. Stern noted that Netanyahu himself had sought Mansour Abbas's support multiple times during government formation talks.

With election lists closing soon, Stern said he wanted to make his decision from a clear and clean slate. His move reflects shifting dynamics within the opposition and the broader Israeli political landscape ahead of the upcoming elections.