Edelstein Denies Oct 7 Conspiracy, Blames Systemic Failure

Veteran Israeli politician Yuli Edelstein, former head of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, stated in an interview that the events of October 7th were not the result of a military conspiracy but a systemic failure. He asserted that while responsibility for the intelligence and security lapses lies with everyone, including himself, the degree of culpability varies significantly. Edelstein plans to reveal secret protocols related to October 7th if summoned by a state commission.

He firmly rejected conspiracy theories circulating in political circles, explaining that classified reports from military intelligence (AMAN), the Shin Bet, and the IDF indicated a widespread miscalculation rather than betrayal. According to Edelstein, leaders genuinely believed Hamas was deterred and focused solely on governing Gaza. He criticized attempts by politicians to blame the army and by the military to blame the government, emphasizing that all parties erred.

Addressing his new party, 'Achdut,' formed with Gilad Erdan, Edelstein denied it was a satellite of the Likud designed to gather right-wing votes. He stated that key figures joined independently to break the "only Bibi or not Bibi" political deadlock. Edelstein clarified that Achdut would not guarantee a 61-seat majority for any coalition and would prioritize forming a broad Zionist government excluding Arab and Haredi parties, alongside the immediate passage of a conscription law for Haredi men.

Regarding the judicial reform, Edelstein acknowledged the real imbalance of power and the Knesset's weakened state but criticized the methods employed by Yariv Levin, which he believes have stalled necessary reforms. He reiterated the urgent need for a state commission of inquiry and explained his refusal to provide classified hearing transcripts to the State Comptroller, stating these documents would only be given to an official state investigative commission.