Ex-general Eisenkot challenges Netanyahu ahead of Israel elections

Gadi Eisenkot, the former Israeli defense chief, has launched a new centrist party named Yashar! (meaning “Straight!” in Hebrew), which is gaining momentum in the lead-up to Israel's parliamentary elections, scheduled for no later than October 27, with October 20 being the likely date. Eisenkot is positioning himself as the primary challenger to the current Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, 76, who holds the record as the longest-serving leader. Presently, Yashar! is polling second, trailing Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party. Polls indicate that achieving a majority may prove challenging for either side, as Israeli coalitions often involve multiple parties. A recent survey from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem revealed that over 92% of Israelis think Iran emerged victorious in the conflict initiated by Israel and the US in late February, while Netanyahu's approval rating has dropped from 40.5% in early March to 29.4% in June, with many Israelis desiring his resignation.