Trump surrogates discuss Netanyahu-Eisenkot unity government with Israeli officials - report

OCTOBER 27, 2026 00:54Updated: OCTOBER 27, 2026 01:59Surrogates for US President Donald Trump spoke with Israeli officials about the possibility of a unity government that includes both Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yishai party, The Washington Post reported on Monday.The report cited a Likud official who said, "Eisenkot has shown he lacks the backbone and the determination that Netanyahu has, and I think Trump understands that.""What Trump wants is a stable and reliable Israeli government that can be formed as soon as possible after the election," the official added.According to the report, officials within the Trump administration are divided on the issue of a unity government.Yashar party chairman Gadi Eisenkot visits the Western Wall in Jerusalem’s Old City, days before Israel’s general elections, October 22, 2026. (credit: YONATAN SINDEL/FLASH90)Sources: Netanyahu believes Eisenkot would be best partner if Iran war resumesSources told The Washington Post that Netanyahu told US officials that he believes Eisenkot would be the best partner if hostilities resume between Israel and Iran.The report noted that Netanyahu told US and European officials that he would push for a more moderate coalition if he partnered with Eisenkot.Ben-Gvir claims Likud is working against himOtzma Yehudit chairman Itamar Ben-Gvir attacked Netanyahu and Likud on Monday, claiming the party is working to weaken Otzma Yehudit ahead of the elections.Ben-Gvir alleged that the Prime Minister's Office has pledged to European countries that the next government will be a unity government without Ben-Gvir. "Instead of bringing votes from Eisenkot, they are trying to lower me below the threshold," he said. He added that Netanyahu announced that he would not be reappointed Minister of National Security, and accused Likud of trying to form a unity government without him.Follow us on Google