Netanyahu Fears Hamas Attack to Disrupt Upcoming Elections
With elections just a month away, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed concern that the Hamas terror group might attempt to disrupt the Israeli elections with a surprise attack. In an interview with Kalman Liebskind for "Mekor Rishon," Netanyahu detailed the security situation in Gaza, stating that while Gaza is no longer a "real threat" to Israel, rocket or drone attacks are still possible, especially on election eve.
"I have no doubt they will want to harm our success, and they can put on some momentary show of this or that attack to disrupt the elections," Netanyahu said. He also addressed criticism regarding Qatari money transfers to Gaza prior to the war, asserting that security agencies recommended the transfers. He claimed the Qatari funds constituted only 2% of the total money entering Gaza and were allocated for sewage, disease prevention, and humanitarian needs, with oversight in place.
Netanyahu also revealed details about the decision not to preemptively inform the US administration about the potential assassination of Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah. He explained that informing Washington would have led to the information leaking to The New York Times within minutes, allowing Nasrallah to escape.
In the political and legal spheres, Netanyahu made pointed remarks about rivals. He suggested that National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's actions are aimed at drawing votes from the Likud party, recalling an incident where Ben-Gvir was reportedly taken from a hospital to vote in the Knesset. Netanyahu also clarified that Ofer Winter is not part of the right-wing bloc and stated definitively that he will not accept a plea deal in his ongoing trial, though he is open to mediation.
Regarding the judicial reform, Netanyahu affirmed it is not abandoned and that necessary changes to the justice system will be advanced in the next term, aiming for broad consensus. He also noted he has not spoken with the Attorney General in a long time.
