Gadi Eisenkot sets down four key conditions to replace Benjamin Netanyahu's government

Coalition Plan

Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yashar party, plans to use a parliamentary majority against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to form a broad Zionist government. Following the October 27 election and a meeting with opposition leader Yair Lapid, Eisenkot outlined four core principles for any coalition partner: recognizing Israel as a Jewish, democratic, liberal and egalitarian state; committing to the values of the Declaration of Independence; enforcing mandatory national or military service for all Israelis; and recognizing Hamas as a terrorist group that must be stripped of its military and governing power in Gaza. He also aims to set up a state commission of inquiry, repeal judicial overhaul laws, and strengthen the Israel Defense Forces with better pay and recognition for soldiers.

Political Talks

Eisenkot warned that Israel must avoid another election and a prolonged political crisis. Neither major bloc holds a clear majority, and Yashar accused Likud members, including Education Minister Yoav Kisch, Almog Cohen, and incoming lawmaker Yaakov Bardugo, of trying to lobby Yashar members to switch sides. Meanwhile, Eisenkot stated he will back military action before a new government is sworn in only to counter direct and immediate threats against the country.

Context

Israeli elections often result in fragmented parliaments where smaller parties hold decisive leverage to form governing coalitions. The country's political system places the authority to form a government in the hands of the president, who consults party leaders before choosing a lawmaker for the task.