Eisenkot does not have this election sewn up. So why is he barely campaigning?

Published 1w ago · Updated 6d ago

Covered in 2 countries

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Despite leading the polls to replace Benjamin Netanyahu, Gadi Eisenkot has chosen to run a surprisingly low-profile campaign.

As Israel approaches a new election amid declining public support for Benjamin Netanyahu, opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot has emerged as a leading contender in the polls. Despite holding a significant polling advantage and representing a major party frontrunner, Eisenkot has surprisingly maintained a low campaign profile, ceding both the public spotlight and the political agenda. Observers note that while his popularity eclipses that of the incumbent, his restrained campaigning style leaves the race wide open.

Over half of the Israeli electorate currently expresses a desire to see Benjamin Netanyahu removed from office.
Gadi Eisenkot advocates for strategic military campaigns rather than prolonged open-ended conflicts.
Both Eisenkot and Netanyahu share similar stances regarding the two-state solution and the threat posed by Iran.

Timeline

Sep 20Yashar emerged as a frontrunner in polls as Gadi Eisenkot's popularity surpassed Netanyahu.
Sep 23Analysts questioned why Eisenkot was ceding the spotlight despite not having the election secured.

Why it matters

This political dynamic highlights the shifting landscape of Israeli leadership as public frustration with long-standing governance creates openings for alternative security figures to challenge the status quo.