Gadi Eisenkot Slams Bloc Allies and Rejects Rotation With Netanyahu
Yashar! party leader Gadi Eisenkot sharply criticized Avigdor Lieberman and Naftali Bennett over bloc disunity ahead of the 2026 Knesset elections, while ruling out any rotation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The chairman of the Yashar! party, Gadi Eisenkot, launched a sharp attack against his political allies in the change bloc, specifically targeting Yisrael Beytenu leader Avigdor Lieberman, during an interview with Kan News.
Criticism of the Change Bloc and Leadership
Addressing the recent meeting between Lieberman and Naftali Bennett, Eisenkot stated that the idea of a prime minister with only eight mandates is unrealistic and urged both leaders to reconsider their approach. Despite leading in the polls, Eisenkot expressed frustration that the change bloc remains uncoordinated.
"There is no such thing as a prime minister with 8 mandates. Those who bank on this do not know what they are talking about. I call on him and Bennett to snap out of it," Eisenkot said.
He added that while he initiated joint meetings, Lieberman and Bennett declined, fearing it would harm their political standing. Eisenkot argued that failing to establish foundational rules in advance damages their collective electoral prospects.
Attacks on Netanyahu and Security Policy
Eisenkot also sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of dragging Israeli society down to dangerous norms and manipulation. Commenting on the failure of October 7, Eisenkot ruled out any rotation agreement with Netanyahu.
-
Netanyahu failed across all areas and is responsible as commander-in-chief.
-
Publication of internal security reports will shake the political establishment.
-
Rotation is off the table as it prevents effective governance.
Political Reactions and Counterclaims
In response, the Amichai Yisrael party defended Ofer Winter, highlighting a deep conceptual abyss between Eisenkot's containment doctrine and Winter's decisive military philosophy. Meanwhile, Yisrael Beytenu responded that Lieberman possesses extensive experience and zero ego, emphasizing their goal to form a Zionist government without Netanyahu, the Haredi parties, or Arab factions.
