From Netanyahu's top general to his main challenger

Gadi Eisenkot, a 66-year-old former chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces, has transformed from a top general under Benjamin Netanyahu to his most significant political rival. Eisenkot, who lost his son during the Gaza war, has made unseating Netanyahu his stated goal. He established his own political party merely a year ago, yet current polls indicate he is leading ahead of the Israeli elections scheduled for this autumn.

Eisenkot's ascent has triggered a robust response from Netanyahu's camp. The ruling Likud party has launched a full-scale attack, including a campaign film that targets Eisenkot's perceived lack of charisma and his English-speaking skills, which are noted to have a strong Hebrew accent. The film juxtaposes clips of Eisenkot with footage of the US-educated Netanyahu addressing the United Nations.

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Where was Netanyahu’s excellent English during October 7? Where is his excellent English when it comes to strengthening the relationship between Israel and the United States, which is currently at the absolute bottom?

Responding to the criticism, Eisenkot questioned Netanyahu's English proficiency during critical moments, such as the October 7th attacks and efforts to mend strained relations with the United States. Eisenkot, born in 1960 to Moroccan Jewish immigrants, had a distinguished military career, rising through the ranks to become the IDF's chief of staff, a position appointed by Netanyahu himself in 2015.

The relationship between the two men soured, notably in 2016, following an incident where an Israeli soldier shot and killed a Palestinian attacker who had already been wounded. While Netanyahu publicly defended the soldier and advocated for a pardon, Eisenkot, as IDF chief, insisted on a trial, leading to the soldier's conviction for manslaughter. This divergence in approach highlighted a fundamental difference in their perspectives on justice and military conduct.

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The people of Israel trust you, the government of Israel trusts you, and Gadi, I trust you.