DistantNews
Support us
🇮🇱 Israel /Elections & Politics

Middle Israel: If Israel's opposition wants to govern, they should rally behind Eisenkot - opinion

From Jerusalem Post · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

Opinion Sources not specified Context piece
  • Opposition leaders in Israel must unite behind Gadi Eisenkot as their joint candidate to have a chance at governing, despite his lack of political experience compared to rivals.
  • Eisenkot, who has suffered personal loss, symbolizes the nation's agony and hope, resonating with a broad spectrum of voters.
  • The article advocates for Israel's opposition to adopt a British-style shadow cabinet to demonstrate collective harmony, pragmatism, and purpose to convince swing voters.

In Israel's complex political landscape, the opposition faces a critical juncture where unity behind a single candidate is paramount for any prospect of governing. The article argues that Gadi Eisenkot, despite being a political novice compared to seasoned rivals like Naftali Bennett and Avigdor Liberman, possesses a unique appeal that could translate into electoral success.

Fielding four aspiring prime ministers, the opposition’s leaders will have to crown Gadi Eisenkot as their joint candidate.

— Amotz Asa-ElThe author's central argument for uniting the opposition behind a single leader.

Eisenkot's popularity, as indicated by polls, stems from his ability to personify the nation's suffering and aspirations. Having lost family members in Gaza and rising through the IDF ranks as the son of immigrants, he embodies both the country's pain and its potential for pride. This dual symbolism makes him a compelling figure capable of attracting support across different political factions, including those who might typically lean towards the Likud party.

Eisenkot brings what none of them has – a symbol of the agony this country has endured and of the hope that it craves.

— Amotz Asa-ElExplaining Eisenkot's unique appeal beyond political experience.

The author contends that Bennett, Liberman, and Yair Golan must recognize Eisenkot's electoral gravity and strategize to join his momentum rather than oppose it. The proposed solution is the formation of a "shadow cabinet," a concept borrowed from British parliamentary practice. This would involve presenting a united front, showcasing collegiality, consensus, and a clear drive to govern.

Monitoring and critiquing a particular minister’s work, the shadow minister enjoys a higher public profile.

— Amotz Asa-ElDescribing the function and benefit of a shadow cabinet member.

Unlike Israel's past, where such a formal structure has been largely absent, a shadow cabinet would allow opposition members to monitor and critique specific government ministries. This would not only enhance their public profile but also prepare them to govern effectively should they win an election, as they would already be familiar with their respective portfolios. The article stresses that this collective approach is vital for convincing swing voters that the opposition is serious and capable of leading the nation.

It’s a good idea any day, but for today’s opposition it is vital, because to win, it must display collective harmony, pragmatism, and purpose.

— Amotz Asa-ElHighlighting the necessity of a shadow cabinet for the current Israeli opposition.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog