Likud Minister David Amsalem said on Wednesday that former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot is suitable for the party, expanding on his earlier remarks. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir responded, accusing some within Likud of still living in the 'concept' and considering Eisenkot a legitimate candidate for a unity government. The exchange was reported by N12.
Following his earlier remarks this morning, Minister David Amsalem (Likud) told N12 on Wednesday that former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot 'is suitable for Likud,' expanding on his previous statement that he would welcome Eisenkot joining the party. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir (Otzma Yehudit) responded sharply, saying that 'there are still factors in Likud who live in the concept and continue to think that Gadi Eisenkot is a legitimate candidate for a unity government or a broad Zionist government.' The exchange underscores the internal tensions within the coalition regarding Eisenkot's growing political profile. As The Zioneer reported earlier Wednesday, Amsalem had previously stated that Eisenkot's profile fits naturally with the Likud. Eisenkot, chair of the Yashar party, has been rising in polls and is seen as a leading opposition candidate for prime minister. Ben Gvir's criticism aligns with his party's opposition to any cooperation with Eisenkot, whom they view as a left-wing figure.
3 developments
- DevelopingLikud ministers open to serving under Eisenkot if he leans on Arab support
- DevelopingLapid endorses Bennett to lead Israel; Bennett adviser denies attacking Eisenkot
- DevelopingMoshe Kahlon mulls joining Eisenkot's party, Yaakov Bardugo says
- DevelopingAmit Segal sketches clash: Netanyahu vs Eisenkot in upcoming election
Source and signal
- Open-source intake