Gadi Eisenkot

Asked whether the U.S. could work better with Gadi Eisenkot than with Netanyahu if Eisenkot won Israel's election, President Trump said he had not heard bad things about him but cautioned against counting out the incumbent.

Trump: "People have written off Bibi many, many times, just like they've written off me many, many times. I wouldn't underestimate Bibi."

TIME

Eisenkot might be leading in the polls, but Israel elects 120 MKs, not a prime minister. He still needs 61 seats to form a government, and his path to 61 without Arab party support remains very slim.

Former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot, visiting the northern border today:

"If the government does not give the IDF full freedom of action in Lebanon, it will be a disaster for generations. Force must be used to demilitarize southern Lebanon, disarm Hezbollah, and ensure long-term security for northern residents."