Eisenkot Rises as Security-First Leader to Defend Israel, Vows to Restore Order After Netanyahu
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Former IDF chief Gadi Eisenkot, now leading the Yashar party, positions himself as the next strongman to protect Israel’s Jewish character, promising a hard line on Iran, a crackdown on internal failures, and a coalition that excludes those who threaten national unity.
Former Israeli chief of staff Gadi Eisenkot, now leader of the Yashar party, has declared his intent to replace Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after the October election, signaling a new era of security-first leadership. A Channel 12 poll projects Yashar with 23 Knesset seats, putting it ahead of Likud, and Eisenkot narrowly surpasses Netanyahu in leadership suitability—a testament to the public’s demand for decisive, patriotic governance.
Eisenkot, who served as IDF chief from 2015 to 2019, made clear that Iran and its terrorist proxies are the greatest threats to Israel’s existence. He condemned the October 7 Hamas attack as a shameful failure of both military and political leadership, citing “deep negligence, arrogance, contempt, lack of professionalism” among senior officials. Eisenkot’s promise to establish a state commission of inquiry shows his commitment to rooting out weakness and restoring Israel’s deterrence.
Eisenkot’s campaign is deeply personal, shaped by the loss of his son Gal and two nephews in the war—sacrifices that underscore his resolve to defend the nation at all costs.
When it comes to coalition building, Eisenkot drew a red line: he will not partner with Arab parties that refuse to recognize Hamas as a terrorist organization, ensuring that enemies of the Jewish state have no place in government. He insists any future coalition must uphold Israel’s Jewish-democratic character and the values of the Declaration of Independence, seeking alliances with strong Zionist leaders like Naftali Bennett, Avigdor Liberman, and Yair Golan to secure a patriotic majority.
On the West Bank, Eisenkot criticized the current civilian administration, vowing to restore military coordination and enforce order against lawless elements, including violent settlers. He also pledged to review the appointments of Mossad chief Roman Gofman and Shin Bet director David Zini, describing them as “very good commanders” but “incorrect appointments,” signaling his intent to install only the most loyal and capable security chiefs.
Rejecting the failed rotation-prime-minister model, Eisenkot insists on a single, strong leader for a full four-year term, contrasting his vision with the indecisive leadership of Benny Gantz. Eisenkot’s sense of mission is deeply rooted in his family’s sacrifice for the nation.
On foreign policy, Eisenkot identified Iran’s nuclear ambitions as Israel’s gravest strategic challenge and pledged to further strengthen ties with the U.S., recognizing the importance of American support for Israel’s security. He called for a realistic draft plan for ultra-Orthodox Jews, proposing limited exemptions similar to those for elite athletes, and advocated for universal state schooling with funding tied to attendance—measures to ensure all sectors contribute to the nation’s defense.
"Unequivocally, there was no betrayal... I know the people [and the system]. There is no chance that someone betrayed," Eisenkot asserted, dismissing any slander against Israel’s loyal defenders.
"I see as a partner anyone who accepts Israel as a Jewish democratic state, the values of the Declaration of Independence, and the obligation of service," he added, making clear that only those committed to Israel’s core values will have a seat at the table.
The interview highlighted Eisenkot’s unwavering focus on security, accountability for October 7, and a coalition built on national strength and unity.