Gadi Eisenkot Criticizes Netanyahu’s Handling of Gaza Conflict, Calls for Elections

In a candid interview on Thursday, Gadi Eisenkot, a key member of Israel’s war cabinet and former IDF chief of staff, expressed criticism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s management of the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza. Eisenkot suggested that talk of achieving complete victory over the terror group was unrealistic and proposed the need for new elections within months to restore public trust in the government following the devastating 7 October attacks.

Eisenkot, whose son and nephew were killed in the conflict, shared his perspective during an interview with Channel 12’s Uvda program. The interview coincided with Netanyahu’s rejection of the idea of holding elections in the midst of the prolonged war, emphasizing a commitment to “bring complete victory” over Hamas.

During the interview, Eisenkot stated, “Whoever speaks of absolute defeat is not speaking the truth,” highlighting the yet-to-be-achieved goals of the war in Gaza. Israel’s objectives include destroying Hamas’s military capabilities, eliminating the group as a threat, and securing the return of hostages taken during the 7 October attacks.

Eisenkot also questioned the transparency of Israel’s leadership, asserting that the public was not being told the truth. He took a subtle jab at Netanyahu’s reluctance to take direct responsibility for intelligence, military, and leadership failures surrounding the events of 7 October. 

Tensions within the Israeli war cabinet have surfaced, reflecting concerns about the war’s direction and the need for a comprehensive post-war plan. The interview adds a significant voice to the internal debate over the conflict’s management and the future of Israel’s leadership.