The New York Times analyzed Eisenkot — and found his weak point

A New York Times analysis highlights the gap between Gadi Eisenkot and Benjamin Netanyahu: the former chief of staff leads in polls, but his restrained campaign raises concerns among his supporters. The article compares their different backgrounds and notes that Eisenkot could become the first prime minister of Mizrahi descent, but his lead in the polls is narrowing.

A New York Times analysis, covered in this article, examines the gap between Gadi Eisenkot and Benjamin Netanyahu in the 2026 elections. Eisenkot, the former chief of staff, leads in polls but his restrained campaign worries his supporters. The article compares their backgrounds: Netanyahu grew up in the Jerusalem elite and is considered a political wizard, while Eisenkot grew up in the periphery and brings an image of honesty and stability. If elected, he would be the first prime minister of Mizrahi descent. Ehud Barak described him as someone who can restore trust to the Prime Minister's Office, and Yoav Horowitz, a former chief of staff for Netanyahu, is working on Eisenkot's 100-day plan. However, his lead in the polls is shrinking, and supporters fear a lack of 'knife between the teeth' against Netanyahu's campaign machine. Netanyahu attacks Eisenkot's lack of diplomatic experience and claims his positions would lead to the establishment of a Palestinian state, despite Eisenkot's clarifications. The decision, according to the New York Times, depends on whether the public chooses quiet responsibility or Netanyahu's aggressive political drive.