Israel's opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot pledges new government committed to equality and closer cooperation with Trump

Gadi Eisenkot, Israel's opposition leader and former military chief of staff, has pledged to establish a new government following the parliamentary elections, saying Israeli voters have delivered a mandate to replace the current administration.

“The people of Israel have voted for change and for the replacement of the current government,” Eisenkot said in a statement on Wednesday, November 4.

“I intend to bring new leadership to Israel, leadership that serves all Israelis.”

Eisenkot, who served as chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces from 2015 to 2019, said his proposed government would seek to strengthen Israel while upholding its Jewish identity, democratic institutions and liberal principles.

“Together with my partners, we will build a stronger Israel: a Jewish and democratic Israel. An Israel committed to liberal values, equality for all, and confidence in its future,” he said.

The opposition leader also pledged to maintain close relations with Washington, expressing his appreciation for President Donald Trump's support for Israel.

“I look forward to working closely and constructively with President Trump and his administration, whose friendship and commitment to Israel we deeply appreciate,” Eisenkot said.

He identified security cooperation, regional stability and economic development as priorities for relations between the two countries.

“Together, we can advance our shared security interests, strengthen regional stability, and open new doors for prosperity for the people of the Middle East,” he added.

Eisenkot's statement followed Israel's October 27 parliamentary elections, which left the country's political parties negotiating the formation of a new governing coalition.

His remarks came as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for a broad national government led by his Likud party, while opposing the formation of a minority administration dependent on Arab political parties.

Eisenkot has not outlined the full composition of his proposed coalition, but his statement emphasized a government representing all Israelis and maintaining Israel's strategic partnership with the United States.