Retired General Kamil Abu Roken Joins Gadi Eizenkot's Yashar Party to Strengthen Israeli Unity

The Yashar party, led by former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot, announced the addition of retired Major General Kamil Abu Roken to its ranks on Wednesday. Abu Roken, a former Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, brings decades of security experience and a strong ethical backbone, according to Eizenkot. He praised Abu Roken as "Israel at its best," highlighting his deep knowledge of the Middle East and his ability to identify regional opportunities alongside security challenges.

Eizenkot recalled their first meeting over 30 years ago when he commanded a brigade in Judea and Samaria and Abu Roken served as governor of Tulkarm. He described Abu Roken as a sharp and courageous figure who was an asset in every security role he held. Abu Roken expressed his trust in Eizenkot's leadership to restore solidarity and unity across Israeli society and emphasized his commitment to addressing the longstanding challenges faced by the Druze community, promising to strengthen the historic alliance between the Druze and the State of Israel.

Abu Roken, a resident of Isfiya, is a prominent and respected figure within Israel's Druze community. He served in the IDF for 30 years in various security roles, including deputy Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories during the Second Intifada and head of the Civil Administration. After his military service, he held positions in the Foreign Ministry, Defense Ministry, and Prime Minister's Office, leading national security projects. In 2018, he returned to military service as a Major General and Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories until his retirement in 2021. He also chaired the Druze Heritage Center in Israel.

Abu Roken holds a bachelor's degree in political science and Middle Eastern history and a master's in international relations. His joining Yashar follows other prominent figures such as former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen, economist Shaul Meridor, former ministers Matan Kahana and Orit Farkash-Hacohen, and other notable leaders, signaling the party's effort to consolidate experienced leadership for Israel's security and unity.