Ex-Shin Bet Chief Yoram Cohen Criticizes Unauthorized West Bank Outposts

Former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen stated that he opposes any West Bank "agricultural outposts" not built under a legal government decision, differentiating them from settlements established through proper channels. Speaking on "Meet the Press," Cohen clarified that while he does not support a Palestinian state or the evacuation of settlements, he is "not sure that everything Smotrich built was by government decision." He also addressed efforts to unite centrist political factions, expressing hope for a "favorable moment" for mergers.

Cohen also weighed in on the controversy surrounding Prime Minister Netanyahu not being informed of a significant security incident, explaining the typical protocol for relaying urgent information. He suggested that if the Shin Bet or military had assessed the situation as immediately critical, the Prime Minister would have been alerted. Cohen criticized Netanyahu's retrospective claims about what he would have done, noting that the Prime Minister has not always reacted strongly to serious events himself.

Addressing claims that Gadi Eisenkot, a political ally, supports a two-state solution, Cohen asserted that Eisenkot has never spoken about two states for two peoples, attributing such discussions solely to Netanyahu. Cohen reiterated his personal opposition to a Palestinian state due to security risks, deeming it unrealistic in the current political climate. He advocated for strengthening settlements, provided they are planned by the government, but drew a line at unauthorized constructions.

Furthermore, Cohen revealed his surprise and disappointment at learning that Prime Minister Netanyahu had allegedly conducted a separate negotiation with Hamas through a businessman while Cohen's official delegation was engaged in similar efforts in Cairo. He stated that Netanyahu had misled him twice on this matter, undermining the credibility of the security establishment and Israel's negotiating interests.

Regarding the potential for a balanced government, Cohen affirmed that any Zionist, state-oriented party that recognizes Israel's Declaration of Independence is legitimate for coalition talks. He specifically defended Yair Golan, a former Deputy Chief of Staff, as relevant to government, while criticizing the Netanyahu family's alleged dissemination of conspiracy theories against him. Cohen also commented on the ongoing legal proceedings against Netanyahu, acknowledging the argument that prosecutorial decisions can be mistaken but emphasizing the need for public choice in leadership.