Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi Criticizes Ex-IDF Chief Eisenkot and Defends Netanyahu Post-October 7

Israeli Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi launched a sharp critique against former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot, calling him a poor military leader during a radio interview on 103FM on August 12, 2026. Karhi argued that if Eisenkot had been offered a reserved spot on the Likud party list, he would have been deeply offended. Karhi also dismissed the idea that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should resign following the October 7 attacks, asserting that Netanyahu was obligated to remain in office to avoid appearing as if he had abandoned the country.

Karhi praised Netanyahu for correcting intelligence and military failures that existed before the October 7 attacks, stating that the government managed to restore Israel’s deterrence and secure strong U.S. support. He described the situation on October 7 as the lowest point in Israel’s history since its founding. Karhi accused Eisenkot of embodying the military dissent associated with the "Brothers in Arms" movement, implying disloyalty.

Additionally, Karhi condemned the concept of reserved parliamentary seats for senior ministers and lawmakers, calling it insulting to voters and emphasizing his own efforts against what he termed the "deep state" and judicial overreach. He announced plans to seek public trust in upcoming elections, positioning himself against entrenched political privileges.

The comments come amid ongoing political tensions within the Likud party and broader Israeli politics, reflecting deep divisions over the handling of national security and governance after the October 7 attacks.