לא רק גיוס ותקציבים: אם איזנקוט ייקח לחרדים את נשק יום הדין - חלום הממשלה עשוי להתרחק | מתי טוכפלד

The article discusses the potential challenges facing Gadi Eisenkot in forming a new government, particularly concerning the Haredi parties and their demands. A key point of contention is the Haredi parties' demand for full exemption from military service, which is strongly opposed by Avigdor Liberman's Yisrael Beiteinu party. If Eisenkot were to concede to the Haredi demand on conscription, it could alienate Liberman and potentially lead to the collapse of his coalition efforts. The article suggests that Eisenkot will first attempt to form a government with the Haredi parties, but their fear of broken promises and Liberman's demands could derail the process. Shas, in particular, is noted as remaining loyal to Netanyahu, making their potential inclusion in an Eisenkot government uncertain. If Shas does not join, Eisenkot might be forced to bring in the Arab party Ra'am, a move Liberman has stated he would not support, potentially leading to the inclusion of the Joint List as external support. This scenario is described as politically stable but ethically and security-wise bankrupt. The article posits that Eisenkot has a limited window of 28 days, plus a 14-day extension, to form a government. Failure to do so could lead to his political downfall, similar to other left-wing leaders. Netanyahu is expected to try to undermine Eisenkot's efforts until the mandate passes back to him.