Netanyahu's Advisor Defends PM's Actions on Oct. 7, Sparks Debate

Topaz Luk, an advisor to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has asserted that Netanyahu was the sole individual functioning and managing affairs in the initial hours of the October 7th surprise attack. Luk stated he was among the first to arrive at the Kirya military headquarters that day and witnessed Netanyahu as the only one in charge, while the IDF Chief of Staff, Shin Bet chief, and other senior security officials were in a state of unprecedented shock.

Journalist Ben Caspit sharply criticized Luk's claims, demanding evidence of Netanyahu's alleged management. Caspit questioned why Netanyahu took over three hours to speak with the IDF Chief of Staff for the first time and what matters he was managing. Caspit also alluded to Luk being the only one not receiving money from Qatar.

Luk responded by suggesting Caspit's distress stems from knowing the truth. In parallel, the Prime Minister's Office released a statement detailing Netanyahu's schedule during those critical moments, aiming to counter reports that he delayed speaking with IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi for over three hours. The statement outlined steps taken by the Prime Minister upon being alerted, including calls with his military secretary, arrival at the Kirya, discussions with the Defense Minister, and a situation assessment.

The timeline provided by the PMO indicates Netanyahu was not updated before 6:29 AM. However, the documentation presented shows the initial situation assessment with senior security officials did not begin until 9:55 AM, more than three hours after the first report, with no record of a direct conversation with the Chief of Staff prior to that.