Gadi Eizenkot Emerges as Major Political Challenger to Netanyahu Ahead of Israel Elections

A detailed profile in Politico highlights the rapid rise of Gadi Eizenkot as a significant political contender against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the upcoming Israeli elections scheduled for October 27, 2026. Eizenkot, a former IDF Chief of Staff and once a member of Netanyahu's war cabinet, founded the "Yashar!" party following widespread dissatisfaction with the government's handling of the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. National polls show Eizenkot's party surpassing Netanyahu's Likud, signaling a shift in public sentiment.

Netanyahu has sought to undermine Eizenkot by accusing him of wanting to surrender, claiming, "Netanyahu fought," during his Likud campaign. However, Eizenkot responded calmly at a public event in Karmiel, a traditional Likud stronghold, criticizing Netanyahu's security record by referencing the October 7 attack. Analysts note that while Eizenkot may not match Netanyahu's oratory skills, he projects the key quality voters currently desire: credibility. Amid Netanyahu's ongoing criminal corruption trial, Eizenkot is viewed as a figure of integrity.

Eizenkot's personal background resonates with many Israelis. The son of Moroccan immigrants who grew up in Eilat and rose from a Golani Brigade soldier to IDF Chief of Staff, he symbolizes social mobility. His appeal extends to the Arab sector, which hopes he will address its concerns. Experts suggest his conscientious nature could help restore Israel's foreign relations, but his main challenge remains overcoming political inexperience and proving his campaign promises are substantive rather than mere slogans.