An Israeli general who doesn't hate the Palestinians could defeat Netanyahu after 30 years

Israeli General Who Does Not Hate Palestinians Could Defeat Netanyahu in 30 Years General Gadi Eisenkot, known for his measured stance toward Palestinians, has emerged as one of the strongest potential challengers to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in upcoming elections. According to recent public opinion polls, Eisenkot is positioned as a leading candidate for the October parliamentary elections, marking a significant shift in Israeli political dynamics. Unlike many of Netanyahu’s past opponents, Eisenkot has yet to run for political office, having founded his party just months ago. His rise reflects growing public dissatisfaction with Netanyahu's leadership and a desire for a more balanced approach to security and diplomacy. Netanyahu has dominated Israeli politics for over three decades, shaping policies that have defined the country’s relationship with its neighbors. His tenure has been marked by a firm commitment to security, often prioritizing military action over diplomatic engagement. However, his long-standing grip on power has also led to widespread criticism, particularly regarding governance and transparency. Eisenkot, while not a pacifist, represents a different path, one that emphasizes both national security and respect for Palestinian civilians. This contrast has made him a compelling figure among voters who seek change without compromising Israel’s safety. The role of former generals in Israeli politics has historically been influential. Figures such as Yitzhak Rabin, Ehud Barak, and Ariel Sharon have shaped the nation’s trajectory through their military backgrounds and political acumen. Netanyahu himself has a strong military history, having served in the elite Sayeret Matkal unit, comparable to Britain’s SAS or the U.S. Delta Force. His brother, Jonathan Netanyahu, was instrumental in the 1976 Entebbe operation, which freed hostages held by Palestinian militants in Uganda. Jonathan Netanyahu was the only Israeli soldier killed during that mission, highlighting the family’s deep ties to military service. Eisenkot’s career mirrors this tradition. He joined the Israeli Defense Forces in 1978 and spent much of his career in the elite Golan Brigade before becoming a general. From 2015 to 2019, he commanded the Israeli Air Force, overseeing strategic operations that reinforced the country’s defense capabilities. His experience has earned him credibility among military circles and the public, especially after the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas, which left hundreds dead and thousands injured. Many Israelis see Eisenkot as someone who could restore faith in state institutions while maintaining a strict security posture. Eisenkot is also known for his involvement in the controversial “Dahiya doctrine,” which advocates for disproportionate military responses to attacks originating from civilian areas. While supporters argue that this strategy effectively deters hostile actions, critics accuse him of violating international law and escalating conflict. Despite these controversies, Eisenkot has remained a respected figure within military and political circles. He has also played a key role in developing Israel’s “war between wars” strategy, which involves covert operations against Iran and its allies to weaken regional threats. After the Hamas attack, Netanyahu invited Eisenkot into his war cabinet, but Eisenkot resigned shortly afterward, criticizing the government’s lack of clear strategy and decision-making. He argued that the administration failed to provide a coherent plan for freeing hostages and ending the conflict. Although Eisenkot is often labeled as a hawk due to his military background, his approach to Palestinians is more nuanced. During his time commanding the army, he emphasized distinguishing between civilians and terrorists, and he opposes expanding Jewish settlements on the West Bank. He views the destruction of Palestinian institutions as a major mistake, though he maintains a hardline stance against Hamas, seeing them as an existential threat. As the October elections draw near, Eisenkot’s candidacy signals a possible realignment of Israeli politics. His ability to balance security concerns with a more moderate stance toward Palestinians could reshape the country’s future, offering a new direction after years of Netanyahu’s dominance. Whether he can translate this support into victory will depend on how well he navigates the complex landscape of Israeli politics and public sentiment.