Fmr. IDF chief Eisenkot reflects on son’s death, says he ‘didn't cry' for decades until funeral

In a poignant reflection ahead of Remembrance Day, former IDF chief of staff and current political leader Gadi Eisenkot opened up about the deep personal toll of losing his son, Master-Sgt. Gal Eisenkot, during combat in Gaza. Eisenkot revealed a profound struggle with grief, admitting he had not cried for five decades until his son's funeral. This raw honesty offers a rare glimpse into the immense personal sacrifice borne by Israel's leaders and military figures, highlighting the human cost behind the nation's ongoing security challenges.

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You need to gather strength, to look for good reasons to continue living a normal life. I understand that you cannot turn the clock back.

Eisenkot’s narrative transcends personal tragedy, illustrating how loss can fuel a drive for national betterment. He explained that his son's death has propelled him to action, leading to the formation of his party, Yashar!, which has gained significant traction in recent polls. This political endeavor is framed not just as a challenge to the current government but as a mission to honor his son’s memory by striving to improve the country. The article touches upon the immense difficulty of moving forward, referencing unopened boxes of his son's belongings and the pending review of the military investigation into Gal's death, underscoring the enduring pain and the complex process of healing.

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You can and must remember, there is great pain, longing, and a huge sense of loss for what Gal could have done; alongside the understanding that there is family, grandchildren, and friends, and you want them to continue to grow, to be happy, and to love life.

For Israelis, Eisenkot’s story resonates deeply, embodying the national narrative of resilience in the face of devastating loss. His willingness to confront his grief publicly, while simultaneously engaging in the demanding arena of politics, speaks to a commitment to serve the nation even amidst profound personal suffering. The fact that two of his nephews also fell in the war further emphasizes the deep familial ties to the ongoing conflict and the collective sacrifice experienced by many Israeli families. Eisenkot's journey from military command to political leadership, driven by personal tragedy, is a uniquely Israeli story of duty, loss, and the unwavering determination to shape the nation's future.

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I still haven’t opened them.