Yoni Pollard Blames Former IDF Chief Eisenkot for October 7 Security Failures

In a recent interview on Channel 14, Yoni Pollard, who recently joined the Israel First party led by MK Sharren Haskel, sharply criticized former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot. Pollard accused Eisenkot of "destroying the army and laying the groundwork for the October 7 attacks," referring to the deadly assault by Hamas. He stressed the urgent need for a strong right-wing government to support Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and prevent future security failures.

Pollard explained that the events of October 7 profoundly changed his perspective, motivating him to enter politics. He described feeling betrayed by the government and military's negligence, which he said abandoned Israeli citizens and led to the massacre. Pollard called for unity among right-wing parties, warning that many small parties risk failing to pass the electoral threshold and losing votes. He urged these parties to set aside egos and form a united front to ensure effective governance and security.

Rejecting the idea of a national unity government that includes Eisenkot, Pollard argued such a coalition would not guarantee the level of security Israel needs. He emphasized the necessity of decisively addressing security challenges, criticizing both the military and politicians for their previous failures. Pollard's political goals focus on consolidating the right-wing bloc ahead of the 2026 elections to strengthen Netanyahu's leadership and prevent another tragedy like October 7.