The Global Story: The challenger to Netanyahu, with New Yorker editor David Remnick

Gadi Eisenkot, a former Israeli military chief and war cabinet member, has emerged as a significant political challenger to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of Israel's upcoming general election. Despite a lack of traditional political charisma, Eisenkot’s background as a Moroccan-descended military leader and his personal tragedy—losing his son in the Gaza war—resonate deeply with the Israeli public. While often framed as the "anti-Netanyahu," his policy positions remain nuanced, particularly regarding the Palestinian conflict, which is largely absent from the current Israeli campaign discourse. The political landscape is further complicated by a shift in the U.S.-Israel relationship, as American support becomes increasingly polarized. David Remnick, editor of The New Yorker, highlights that while Eisenkot offers a contrast in character and governance, the fundamental challenges of Israeli politics and regional security remain deeply entrenched.