Gadi Eisenkot, Israel’s former military chief, has embarked on the challenging journey of establishing a new government. On Sunday, he initiated efforts to connect with allies of Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasizing that the long-serving prime minister has led the nation into an unprecedented crisis. Eisenkot, who is 66 years old and new to politics, received a mandate from President Isaac Herzog. This gives him 28 days to form a government, despite lacking a clear majority in his political bloc.
Diplomatic Concerns
At a ceremony held at the presidential office, Eisenkot expressed his concerns about the current state of Israel, suggesting the nation is nearing a critical juncture. Both he and President Herzog acknowledged the diplomatic challenges faced under Netanyahu’s leadership. Netanyahu is currently wanted by the International Criminal Court for alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes in Gaza.
Eisenkot highlighted Israel’s deepening isolation on the global stage, noting that even the country’s closest allies are reconsidering their relationships. He stressed the necessity of forming a national emergency government, suggesting that innovative political strategies are vital to navigate the crisis. According to Eisenkot, Israeli democracy is at a precarious moment, requiring trustworthy leadership urgently.
Political Strategies and Challenges
Eisenkot has reached out to Netanyahu’s Likud Party and the far-right party led by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, proposing collaboration only if he serves as the prime minister. He extended an open invitation to those who recognize the seriousness of the current situation.
President Herzog also emphasized the pressing need to address threats from Iran, advance peace efforts in Gaza, and engage in dialogue with Lebanon and other neighboring countries. He underscored the importance of shaping the region’s political landscape and tackling the sanctions and political challenges stemming from recent developments in the United States.
Potential Pathways and Political Dynamics
As Eisenkot seeks to secure a stable government, he is considering several options. These include forming a minority government with support from Arab parties on specific issues, collaborating with ultra-Orthodox parties, or creating a unity government with Netanyahu. Each of these pathways presents significant hurdles.
Eisenkot has indicated a willingness to start with a minority government, relying on external votes from Arab-Israeli parties, before expanding his coalition. He has called for parties to join him based on principles such as recognizing Israel as a Jewish and democratic state, committing to national service, and acknowledging Hamas as a terrorist organization.
Political Implications
If Eisenkot succeeds, he would become the first Sephardic prime minister, representing a shift in a nation historically led by an Ashkenazi elite. His potential leadership comes amid Netanyahu’s long tenure, marked by a rightward shift in policies and military conflicts with Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran.
Netanyahu has proposed a unity government to maintain a Jewish state but has not indicated a willingness to serve under Eisenkot. The current political landscape sees most Jewish parties aligning with Netanyahu’s stance against an independent Palestinian state, despite longstanding peace efforts.
Source: Dawn (English)
