Gadi Eisenkot plans major policy changes as Netanyahu faces coalition challenge

Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yashar party, has pledged to use a parliamentary majority against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to push major policy changes and form a broad coalition after the October 27 election, according to Ynet News.

In a statement issued after meeting opposition leader Yair Lapid on Saturday, Eisenkot outlined his priorities for the next Knesset. These include establishing a state commission of inquiry, introducing mandatory national service for all Israelis and increasing military recruitment, benefits and recognition for those serving in the Israel Defense Forces.

He also pledged to repeal legislation linked to the government's judicial overhaul.

Eisenkot said any coalition must be based on four principles: recognising Israel as a Jewish, democratic, liberal and equal state; upholding the values of its Declaration of Independence; requiring all citizens to undertake military, national or civilian service; and dismantling Hamas' military and governing power in Gaza.

"The door to the government we establish will be open to any elected official who accepts these principles," he wrote. He said he intended to form "a broad Zionist government committed to the national interest".

He also called for efforts to prevent another election and a prolonged political crisis. On possible military action against Iran, Eisenkot said he would support strikes before a new government is formed "only in response to direct and immediate threats against Israel" that cannot wait.

The completed vote count, reported by Globes on October 29, shows Netanyahu's bloc with 53 seats, the opposition bloc with 48 and Arab-led parties with 19 in the 120-member Knesset. None has an outright majority of 61 seats. Official results are expected on November 4.

Eisenkot's meeting with Lapid was part of efforts to secure support from potential coalition partners. Yashar also accused Likud of approaching its members in an attempt to persuade them to switch sides. The party named Education Minister Yoav Kisch, Almog Cohen, and incoming Likud lawmaker Yaakov Bardugo, but did not disclose details of the alleged conversations.