Eisenkot offers hawkish alternative to Netanyahu for Israeli PM

AI Summary

Former Israeli military chief Gadi Eisenkot is presenting himself as a hawkish alternative to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of Israel's October 27 election. His security-focused image has resonated with voters as the country approaches its first election since Hamas's attack three years earlier.

By Alexander Cornwell and Maayan Lubell JERUSALEM, Oct 23 (Reuters) - Reserved, media-shy, and a relative newcomer to Israeli politics, former military chief Gadi Eisenkot presents a clear contrast to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the veteran leader he aims to defeat in an election next week. His image as a straight-talking security hawk from humble roots has resonated in a nation going to the polls on October 27 for the first time sinceHamas attacked Israel three years ago.