Gadi Eisenkot (Yashar party leader,
former IDF chief of staff) centered his 2026 election campaign on ending Hamas rule in Gaza, advancing a U.S.-backed postwar framework under strict conditions, investigating the October 7, 2023 failures, and strengthening the military through broader national service.
Here is a clear, structured summary of Gadi Eisenkot’s main 2026 election promises and positions related to the ongoing war (primarily the Gaza/Hamas conflict and its broader effects):
- End Hamas rule in Gaza within 18 months
Eisenkot publicly pledged that Hamas would no longer govern the Gaza Strip within 18 months of him becoming prime minister. He said this would be achieved either by advancing the U.S./Trump framework or through Israeli military and operational means if necessary, including the destruction of Hamas’s military wing.Ynetnews
- Advance Trump’s 20-point postwar plan from a position of strength
He committed to moving forward with President Trump’s 20-point plan (involving technocratic/Palestinian Authority-linked administration, international stabilization forces, and phased reconstruction). The non-negotiable precondition he set was Hamas’s total disarmament before any reconstruction or transfer of civil governance could proceed. He indicated greater willingness than Netanyahu to implement the plan once that condition was met.Timesofisrael
- Establish a state commission of inquiry into October 7
A top priority was creating an official, independent state commission of inquiry into the failures that enabled the October 7, 2023 attack. He promised to advance the necessary legislation quickly (including via Knesset committees if needed) and criticized the previous government’s delays and preference for more limited probes.Timesofisrael
- Mandatory national service for all to strengthen the IDF
He made universal service (military, national, or civilian) a core condition for any coalition partner. The goal was to expand the ranks of the IDF, reduce the heavy burden on existing conscripts and reservists (one proposal limited reserve duty to roughly 50 days per year), and end broad exemptions, particularly for the Haredi sector (with only limited exemptions discussed).Vinnews
- Improve support and pay for those who serve
He proposed raising compulsory-service soldiers’ pay by about 15% and giving larger increases (around 50%) to combat soldiers in later years of service, along with broader benefits and recognition for those who contribute through military or national service.
- Rehabilitate war-affected communities
He pledged focused efforts to rebuild and support communities in the Gaza envelope (south) and the north that were damaged by the fighting, and to provide care for Israelis who suffered physical or psychological harm from the war.Timesofisrael
- Core coalition principle on Hamas
One of his four stated conditions for joining any government he leads was recognition of Hamas as a terrorist organization plus a clear commitment to dismantling (or destroying) its military and governing capabilities in Gaza.
- Overall stance on the war
Eisenkot repeatedly criticized the outgoing government for strategic failure, for not fully achieving war aims despite years of fighting, and for squandering post-October 7 international legitimacy. He supported military action only against direct and immediate threats that could not wait during the transition period, while emphasizing national unity, accountability, and reducing the long-term military burden on Israeli society. He personally lost a son and nephews in the Gaza fighting, which shaped his emphasis on healing and protecting the country.Timesofisrael
These positions come from Eisenkot’s campaign speeches, interviews, and party statements ahead of the October 27, 2026 election.
