Gadi Eisenkot's Yashar! Party Positions as Prime-Ministerial Contender in Israel's 2026 Election

On 1 July 2026, IDF chief Gadi Eisenkot launched the Yashar! party at South Sharon Regional Council, announcing his bid for prime minister. He called the October election a moment for Israel’s security and unity, pledging to expand the army, create a commission of inquiry into Oct. 7 attack, and limit reserve duty.

Leader of Israel's Yashar Party in run for premiership in upcoming elections

Eisenkot commanded the Israel Defense Forces (2015-2019), shaping the “Dahiyeh doctrine” and Gaza-war strategy. He entered politics in 2022 under Benny Gantz, left the war cabinet in June 2024 over disputes, and became a Mizrahi-voter symbol after his son Gal died in Gaza.

CNN

Channel 12 polls Yashar! at 21 Knesset seats, behind Likud’s 23 and ahead of the Bennett-Lapid list’s 18. A Maariv poll shows 34 % rate Eisenkot the most suitable prime minister, while a Channel 12 survey gives him 38 % personal favorability versus Netanyahu’s 36 %.

CNN

Yashar! proposes a “National Service Law” to integrate ultra-Orthodox Jews, caps reserve duty at 150 days, and expands support for lone soldiers and PTSD care. Economically, it seeks tax relief for burdened families, housing benefits for reservists, and AI-focused education. The party also promises a “Zionist, unifying” immigration policy.

The Jerusalem Post

Eisenkot said “promotes moves that contradict national interest” and pledged a government that “decides courageously on security, duty to serve and education.” Netanyahu called for a “government” and warned opponents “want to create a rift in people.” Likud’s X post warned “There is no Gadi without Tibi,” linking Eisenkot to Arab parties.

CNN

Likud accuses Eisenkot of leniency toward Hezbollah, a charge he denies and says he may litigate. Bennett-Lapid allies question his political inexperience, while right-wing voices argue any anti-Netanyahu bloc would depend on Arab party support, a critique now aimed at Eisenkot.

CNNThe Jerusalem PostArutz Sheva (Israel National News)

Polls vary on Eisenkot’s seat projection (21-23) and favorability (34-38 %). No clear coalition plan exists; analysts warn a government spanning left, right, center and Arab parties would face “real difficulty forming and keeping together.” The proposed “super party” to unite opposition remains unverified.

The Jerusalem Post

• “There is no Gadi without Tibi.” — Likud, X

CNN

• “The war is being conducted through tactical gains, without significant moves to achieve strategic objectives,” — Gadi Eisenkot, letter

CNN

• “I lost friends in war, I also lost family members, and I am not prepared to lose the country as well,” — Gadi Eisenkot, campaign launch

Arutz Sheva (Israel National News)

• “This week, too, the government again chose its survival at the cost of weakening the IDF,” — Gadi Eisenkot, criticism of current cabinet

YnetNews

The election is set for 27 October, with a possible advance to 20 October. Eisenkot will continue policy roll-outs while seeking coalition partners; Netanyahu’s Likud is expected to intensify anti-Arab rhetoric and contrast Eisenkot’s military background with its own political experience.

CNN