Netanyahu Accused of Spreading Conspiracy Theories Ahead of Elections

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife, Sara, are reportedly spreading "betrayal" conspiracy theories regarding the October 7th Hamas attack, according to an Israeli news report. The campaign, described as the "dirtiest in the history of the State of Israel," is seen as an attempt by Netanyahu to deflect blame for the failures leading up to the attack and to survive politically. The timing of these allegations, nearly two months before elections, is considered surprisingly early, possibly prompted by poor poll numbers and further allegations of mistreatment of staff by Sara Netanyahu.

Netanyahu has been disseminating "falsehoods" about the events of October 7th, with his wife making a television appearance suggesting that Major General Yair Golan knew about the impending attack before the Prime Minister. Netanyahu later released a video denying he ever used the word "betrayal," but the report questions why his wife implied Golan was "dressed" and aware of the situation. The article notes that many, including those on the right, have expressed support for Golan, viewing the accusations as a self-inflicted wound for Netanyahu and the Likud party.

The report suggests Netanyahu is equipping his supporters with arguments to counter claims of his failure and responsibility for October 7th. Some supporters, particularly those who watch Channel 14, are expected to embrace a narrative of outright "betrayal" within the IDF, including by Golan, likening it to outlandish conspiracy theories. More moderate supporters of Netanyahu might adopt a less extreme version, such as the unsubstantiated claim that he was deliberately not woken up on the morning of the attack due to fears of "miscalculation."

The article criticizes Netanyahu's repeated emphasis on numerous "signs" that the security establishment supposedly had, calling it a "gross lie" or an indication of his misunderstanding of the intelligence failure. The author argues that the intelligence failure was far more profound, lacking sufficient warning signs. The report asserts that Netanyahu's narrative positions him as the victim, while ignoring the core issue of intelligence and operational failures.

Furthermore, the report details several alleged factual points that supporters might overlook: that Netanyahu allowed funds to be transferred to Gaza despite warnings they were building up Hamas's elite unit; that he refused Shin Bet's requests to renew targeted killings, particularly of Yahya Sinwar; that in July 2023, four letters from the Intelligence Directorate warned of Israel's perceived weakness, which Netanyahu allegedly did not discuss or act upon; that the head of the Shin Bet warned Netanyahu of an impending war in July 2023, a warning that was not adequately addressed; and that individuals in Netanyahu's office received salaries from Qatar, Hamas's patron, after the war began, suggesting Qatari infiltration.

The article concludes by stating these are undeniable facts, not speculation, and that responsibility for October 7th should not be determined by political affiliation. It emphasizes that all senior figures in politics and the security establishment bear responsibility, with the Prime Minister holding ultimate accountability. The report explicitly denies any evidence or reason to believe that Netanyahu or any other Israeli official desired the Hamas invasion or collaborated with the attackers, distinguishing between failure and criminal intent.