Eisenkot accuses Netanyahu of fueling racist campaign against Arab citizens

Gadi Eisenkot, the leader of the Yashar party and Israel's Prime Minister-designate, accused Benjamin Netanyahu of fueling a racist and violent campaign against Arab citizens for political gain. The accusation comes as the country navigates a complex government formation process following the parliamentary elections held on October 27, 2026. Eisenkot met with Netanyahu on Thursday, November 13, 2026, to discuss the current security situation.

Political tensions and coalition negotiations

The political landscape in Israel remains divided following the recent elections, which resulted in no clear majority for any single faction. President Isaac Herzog tasked Gadi Eisenkot with the responsibility of forming a new government. Currently, the parties supporting Gadi Eisenkot hold 67 out of the 120 seats in the Knesset. This support includes 19 seats held by the Arab parties Ra'am and the Joint List.

In contrast, Benjamin Netanyahu's faction holds 46 seats in the Knesset. During the political process, Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Arab parties of being enemies of Israel and of being terrorist sympathizers. He also accused these parties of election theft. Despite the friction, Benjamin Netanyahu stated that a government of national unity remains possible because the Israeli people know how to unite in moments of truth.

The timeline for government formation is strictly regulated. Gadi Eisenkot has 28 days to form a coalition, though he may receive a possible 14-day extension. During this period, the political pressure remains high, as various factions weigh their support against ideological commitments.

Internal party pressures and policy goals

The prospect of a coalition involving Arab parties has caused significant friction within other political factions. Miriam Perec stated that her son, Member of Knesset Eliyahu Perec, would resign from his position if Gadi Eisenkot forms a government with support from Arab parties. This potential resignation could impact the stability of the coalition negotiations.

Beyond the immediate formation of the government, Gadi Eisenkot has outlined several significant policy objectives. He intends to seek a state commission of inquiry into the Hamas attack that occurred on October 7, 2023. Additionally, the Prime Minister-designate intends to pursue the repeal of judicial reform laws. These objectives highlight the significant legislative shifts expected if the current negotiations conclude successfully.

Demographic context and security discussions

The political debate regarding Arab citizens is underscored by their demographic significance in the country. Arab citizens constitute approximately 20% to 21% of the Israeli population. The accusations of a racist campaign against this group remain a central point of contention in the discussions between the Prime Minister-designate and the outgoing Prime Minister.

The meeting between Gadi Eisenkot and Benjamin Netanyahu on November 13, 2026, focused on the security situation. This discussion occurs at a critical time for the nation, as the government formation process is complicated by both domestic political divisions and ongoing security concerns. The outcome of the 28-day negotiation period will determine the direction of the next Israeli administration.

Glossary

• Knesset — The Knesset is a legislative body in Israel. It consists of 120 seats.
• government formation process — The government formation process is a regulated political procedure. It involves a designated individual tasked with forming a government within a specific timeframe.
• coalition negotiations — Coalition negotiations are political discussions held to establish a governing majority. These negotiations involve various political factions and working groups.
• government of national unity — A government of national unity is a type of government that remains a possibility during political processes. It is mentioned as a potential outcome for the Israeli people to unite.