Gadi Eisenkot, the former commander of the Israeli army and a newcomer in the politics of this country, has been introduced as a serious competitor to Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of the upcoming elections in Israel. Eisenkot, known as a transparent and straightforward security figure, is campaigning at a time when Israel is in a sensitive situation due to Hamas attacks.
Eisenkot's Security Approaches
Throughout his election campaign, Eisenkot has emphasized his security credentials and specifically referenced the principles of the Dahya doctrine. This doctrine was used in response to attacks with disproportionate force, and he applied it during the 2006 Lebanon War. This approach has focused on reducing Hamas's military power and preventing future threats from Iran.
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Eisenkot has explicitly opposed the establishment of a Palestinian state and believes that every possible means must be used to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He also advocates for the legality of Jewish settlements in the West Bank and emphasizes that these settlements must serve Israel's national interests.
Eisenkot's Criticism of Netanyahu's Policies
Eisenkot has strongly questioned Netanyahu's right-wing policies and coalition with his extremist partners, criticizing the increase in violence against Palestinians. He has also harshly criticized Netanyahu's actions regarding security and political crises, calling for accountability in these areas. Polls indicate that Eisenkot's Yashar party is currently ahead of Netanyahu's Likud party.
As a son of a family of immigrants from Morocco, Eisenkot may be the first Prime Minister from the Mizrahi community in Israel. This community, with roots in the Middle East and North Africa, is known in Israeli history for its difficult social background.
During his 41 years of service in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), he served as a commander in the West Bank and in the 2006 war against Hezbollah in Lebanon. He was appointed Chief of Staff of the army in 2015 and resigned from this position in 2019. Due to his criticisms of Netanyahu's leadership, he stepped down from leading the Yashar party just eight months after taking over.
The current elections in Israel will be held on October 27, and Eisenkot hopes to garner voter support with his plans, which are based on new security and political approaches.
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