Gadi Eisenkot’s newly formed Yashar party has claimed 26 seats in a recent Channel 13 survey, placing the 2025-founded faction ahead of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party, which garnered 23 seats. Across multiple recent surveys reviewed for the coverage, Yashar consistently polled ahead of Likud with projections ranging from 22 to 26 seats, while Likud tracked between 21 and 23 seats. In a separate Channel 12 poll conducted by the Midgam Institute and headed by Mano Geva, Yashar won 24 seats, and Eisenkot maintained a lead over Netanyahu as the preferred candidate for prime minister with 43% support compared to Netanyahu’s 37%.
Preparing for Government and the 100-Day Agenda
Yashar candidate and Israeli parliamentarian Orit Farkash-Hacohen stated that the party is already preparing a first 100-day agenda, economic changes, and a reconstruction plan for northern Israel. Farkash-Hacohen, who previously served as tourism and strategic affairs minister and later as technology and innovation minister, noted that the party is drawing on former ministers, senior public officials, and younger team members to formulate its strategy. According to Farkash-Hacohen, the party’s primary governing pitch focuses on leadership associated with integrity, public service, and a cabinet expected to prioritize the public over political survival.
Political scientist and educator Jack Drassinower, who specializes in Israeli politics, noted that Israeli elections increasingly center on party leaders rather than fine ideological distinctions. Drassinower explained that Eisenkot’s background as a former Israel Defense Forces (IDF) chief of staff gives him a distinct advantage among voters who view security as the most critical issue, particularly following the events of October 7.
Did You Know? Yashar was founded in 2025 and quickly climbed in political standing, prompting discussions about its prospective policies on the economy, military conscription, public spending, and regional recovery.
Addressing Conscription, National Unity, and the Economy
Yashar has outlined plans to tackle major domestic challenges, including societal divisions and military conscription exemptions. Farkash-Hacohen stated that an Eisenkot government would aim to broaden military or national service among populations that have historically received exemptions, specifically ultra-Orthodox and Arab Israelis, utilizing national service in hospitals and schools to share the national burden. Drassinower observed that Eisenkot has carved out a distinct stance on conscription by supporting a broader service obligation while acknowledging that full ultra-Orthodox enlistment cannot happen immediately.
On economic matters, Farkash-Hacohen warned that the next decade will present significant financial challenges due to increased long-term defense spending following October 7. Yashar plans to close unnecessary ministries, reduce coalition-driven spending, and direct state resources toward citizens who work and serve. To lower the cost of living, the party intends to target concentrated corporate power and exclusive import arrangements in markets such as groceries and cosmetics. For housing, Farkash-Hacohen argued that solutions rely on expanding transportation and infrastructure rather than relying solely on construction policy.
Expert Insight: While Yashar has gained momentum in the polls, political analysts point out that securing a large number of voter seats is distinct from successfully navigating Israel’s fragmented parliamentary system to form and sustain a 61-seat governing majority.
Rebuilding Northern Israel and Coalition Challenges
Yashar released a reconstruction plan for northern Israel focusing on communities that faced prolonged evacuation and disruption after October 7. Farkash-Hacohen emphasized that the primary priority is executing expedited sheltering to ensure immediate personal security, followed by tax incentives, education programs, and targeted development initiatives for areas like Kiryat Shmona.
Achieving these policy goals remains dependent on coalition dynamics. Israel’s parliamentary system requires a 61-seat majority, and Drassinower noted that Eisenkot’s voter popularity does not automatically translate into control over potential coalition partners who hold significant ideological differences. While Farkash-Hacohen expressed confidence that a future government can unite around democratic principles, the rule of law, and shared responsibilities, Drassinower cautioned that unresolved policy disputes between coalition partners historically pose a severe risk to governance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Yashar?
Yashar is a political party founded in 2025 and led by former IDF chief of staff Gadi Eisenkot.
How many seats did Yashar win in the polls?
A Channel 13 survey projected Yashar at 26 seats, while a Channel 12 poll conducted by the Midgam Institute placed the party at 24 seats.
What are the key priorities of Yashar’s policy agenda?
Yashar’s stated priorities include a first 100-day governing plan, societal unity, broadening military and national service, reducing the cost of living, reforming economic subsidies, and executing an expedited reconstruction plan for northern Israel.
How do you think shifting public focus toward military leadership will impact upcoming coalition negotiations in Israel?
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