Gadi Eisenkot opposes Palestinian statehood. What is his alternative solution? – opinion

Gadi Eisenkot, a prominent figure in Israeli politics, opposes Palestinian statehood, prompting calls for him to articulate a clear alternative solution. The article argues that simply rejecting a two-state solution without offering a viable alternative risks perpetuating a strategy similar to Prime Minister Netanyahu's, which aimed to "manage" the conflict indefinitely. The author contends that the events of October 7 demonstrated the unsustainability of this approach, highlighting that the Palestinian question cannot be contained indefinitely.

• The article emphasizes that permanent Israeli control would lead either to a binational state, compromising Israel's Jewish character, or to the permanent subjugation of Palestinians, undermining Israeli democracy.
• It suggests that Eisenkot, as a leader, should not merely reflect public opinion but shape it by proposing a clear political objective beyond military force.
• The author proposes that Israel should send a message to Palestinians: if they elect a democratic leadership that rejects terrorism and accepts Israel's security needs, Israel would be prepared to work towards a two-state solution.
• Such a message could influence Palestinian politics, encouraging the election of pragmatic leaders by demonstrating that a political path to freedom and independence is possible.

The article concludes that "Israel will never have security until Palestinians have freedom, and Palestinians will never have freedom until Israel has security."