Jerusalem:Just days before pivotal Israeli elections, opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, claiming he is 'no longer fit' to lead the country. Eisenkot warned that Netanyahu's economic plan to counter potential international sanctions threatens national security.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the Yashar party leader accused Netanyahu on US social media company X of turning his attention to 'dismantling the Israeli economy for generations ahead' following his alleged dismantling of Israeli society and weakening of the army. Eisenkot described Netanyahu's recent statements as 'conclusive proof' that he has lost touch with reality.

Netanyahu recently proposed an economic plan involving alternative payment methods, such as cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology, in response to potential international economic sanctions. While Netanyahu expressed concerns about possible sanctions affecting the Israeli banking system, he did not suggest that Israel would withdraw from the global economic system.

Eisenkot derided the proposal as 'Bibicoin,' questioning how Israeli technology companies serving foreign clients would manage payments or attract overseas investment without relying on international banking. He warned that this path could lead Israeli companies to relocate abroad, result in losses in savings and investments, and encourage emigration, ultimately harming national security.

Netanyahu's remarks have also faced criticism within Israeli political and economic circles. An unnamed senior economic official cited by Israeli media argued that using cryptocurrencies and alternative financial technologies to circumvent banking sanctions would not achieve the intended goals and could harm the economy. This debate arises amid growing international pressure on Israel over its actions in the Gaza Strip and West Bank.

The political exchanges occur ahead of Tuesday's Knesset elections, where Netanyahu and Eisenkot are vying to lead the next government. Eisenkot, a former military chief, and Netanyahu remain divided on key issues, including security, economic policies, and relations with Western countries.