Eisenkot backs Yashar MK amid coalition talks, criticizes pressure on Arab sector

Gadi Eisenkot, the chairman of the Yashar party, issued a public statement on Friday to address recent tensions within his faction regarding potential coalition partners. The comments came in response to remarks made by Miriam Peretz, the mother of Yashar Knesset member Elisaf Peretz. Miriam Peretz, who is a laureate of the Israel Prize, suggested that her son might resign from the government if the new administration included Arab parties. She stated that under no circumstances should an Arab party have the power to determine whether the state goes to war.

Eisenkot, who has known the Peretz family for nearly thirty years, expressed strong support for both Miriam and Elisaf. In a message shared before the start of Shabbat, he described his relationship with the family as a lifelong bond formed under difficult circumstances. He stated that he embraces Miriam and trusts Elisaf, noting that he is not troubled by the internal dynamics but is concerned about the external pressure being applied to the party.

The Yashar leader described the current atmosphere as a venomous and ugly campaign, citing thousands of harsh and offensive messages sent to several Yashar members and their families. He emphasized that if there are disagreements with his political direction, he is the appropriate person to address them. He argued that those who rely on emissaries and criticism to deter the party likely do not know the group well enough.

The situation has created a noticeable shift in tone from just two days prior. At Elisaf Peretz’s swearing-in ceremony at the Knesset, his mother had emphasized the importance of unity and working for all Israeli citizens. However, in more recent comments, she indicated that pressure is currently being exerted on her and her son, with people taking actions that she has not yet detailed. She hinted that these matters would eventually come to light.

Beyond internal party matters, Eisenkot addressed the broader context of negotiations with the Arab sector. He described Arab Israelis as victims of a racist and violent campaign of delegitimization that he said was fueled by the outgoing prime minister and his circle for political gain. He stressed that the prime minister represents all citizens, including those who did not vote for him, and that Arab citizens are an integral part of the Israeli story.

Eisenkot argued that attempts to marginalize or smear the Arab sector as a whole are an anti-state act. He claimed such actions disgrace the Declaration of Independence and the core values of a Jewish and democratic state. While acknowledging that individuals may disagree with the statements or actions of Arab party leaders, he maintained that one cannot allow an entire demographic to be slandered based on the behavior of a few.

The Yashar chairman warned that the coming weeks will be complex and important. He expressed his determination to overcome challenges to form a stable government and return the country to safety. He noted that he has met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the military secretary to discuss the security situation. Although he could not provide specific details of their discussions, he emphasized the need for close oversight of the government during this sensitive transition period.

Eisenkot clarified that he would not allow a lack of oversight in security matters. He stated that Israel’s security comes before any other consideration and should not be used to gain political capital. He expects all those in office to adhere to this standard.

Looking ahead, Eisenkot said he intends to speak with every elected official who agrees with the four principles of government formation. His goal is to establish a stable administration as quickly as possible, viewing this as the mandate given to him by the public. He concluded that it would be a grave mistake to fail in this endeavor during such a critical moment.