Gadi Eisenkot, former Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, who could potentially remove Benjamin Netanyahu from the position of Prime Minister, is striving to restore calm to the country with a simple and humble appearance. Eisenkot, who served as Chief of Staff from 2015 to 2019, is looking to garner voter support with serious and achievable promises.
Conflict with Netanyahu and New Promises
Eisenkot, 66, is clearly in conflict with Netanyahu, the current Prime Minister and the longest-serving in Israel's history. Netanyahu is known for his command of the English language and ability to attract media attention, while Eisenkot is recognized as a serious and reserved figure. These traits may be one of his greatest strengths in gaining voter support.
Eisenkot aims to restore Israel's international credibility, which has been severely damaged following three years of war in Gaza and violence in the West Bank. He has promised to address Jewish migrants in the West Bank who have attacked Palestinians, condemning these actions as "Jewish terrorism" supported by Netanyahu's government.
Gaining Support from Various Groups
Eisenkot is also seeking support from the middle class and liberal voters. He has promised to pay special attention to legal issues and the independence of the judiciary, as well as to uphold minority rights and press freedom. At the same time, he is attentive to right-wing views and has defended settlement values in the West Bank during meetings with representatives of religious Zionism.
Eisenkot has criticized Netanyahu's policies in various areas, especially regarding military service exemptions for religious students, promising to introduce a universal national service law that will include ultra-Orthodox Jews and Arab citizens.
Given Eisenkot's labor roots and his Sephardic identity, which positions him as the first Prime Minister of Jewish descent from Arab and North African origins, he is striving to highlight historical discrimination against Sephardic Jews in Israel. In response to derogatory remarks from some media about him, Eisenkot has launched a campaign against racial and social discrimination in Israel.
In light of the tense policies in Gaza, Eisenkot has promised to overthrow Hamas within 18 months of taking office. He has mentioned two methods, including implementing the ceasefire plan of former U.S. President Donald Trump or creative operations to destroy Hamas's military wings.
