Eisenkot Sets Four Coalition Conditions and Pledges Immediate Knesset Action

Yashar chairman Gadi Eisenkot said on October 31 that he would seek immediate parliamentary action on an inquiry into October 7, compulsory service and repeal of judicial-overhaul legislation. In a Saturday evening statement, he said he intended to use the Knesset majority opposed to Benjamin Netanyahu without waiting for a new government to be formed. Eisenkot listed a state commission of inquiry into October 7 among his priorities. He also proposed advancing compulsory service for all citizens, increasing the number serving in the Israel Defense Forces, and strengthening support, compensation and recognition for those who serve. These were measures he pledged to pursue, rather than legislation he announced had passed. He set four conditions for potential coalition partners: recognition of Israel as a Jewish, democratic, liberal and egalitarian state; commitment to the Declaration of Independence; military, national or civilian service for every Israeli citizen; and recognition of Hamas as a terrorist organization, together with a commitment to destroy its military and governing capabilities in Gaza. Eisenkot said: “Any MK willing to sign these principles is a possible partner.” He called for the broadest possible Zionist government and for avoiding another election and a prolonged political crisis. Eisenkot separately said that Israel had not achieved its war aims. Until a new government is sworn in, he said his support for military action would be limited to direct and immediate threats that could not wait. His statement did not announce a date for a parliamentary vote on the measures.