Netanyahu Warns Hamas May Disrupt Upcoming Israeli Elections

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has cautioned that Hamas might attempt to disrupt the upcoming Israeli elections by launching an attack on the eve of the vote. He expressed certainty that Hamas would try to undermine Israel's success, citing the possibility of rocket fire, drone strikes, or other attacks aimed at immediately influencing the election campaign. Netanyahu stated that while Gaza no longer poses a significant threat to Israel, isolated attacks remain possible, even on election eve. He also asserted that Hamas would not survive in Gaza long-term.

Regarding Qatari funds transferred to Gaza before the war, Netanyahu explained that this policy was recommended by all Israeli security agencies. He clarified that these funds constituted only 2% of the total money entering Gaza and were specifically allocated for sewage infrastructure, disease prevention, and humanitarian aid to poor families, emphasizing that the funds were monitored. He dismissed claims that these transfers strengthened Hamas.

Netanyahu also discussed the operation that led to the elimination of Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah, revealing he chose not to inform the US administration beforehand to prevent leaks, believing such a notification would have resulted in immediate public disclosure and Nasrallah's escape.

On the domestic political front, Netanyahu accused Itamar Ben-Gvir of attempting to draw votes away from the Likud party and reiterated his view that Ofer Winter is not part of the right-wing bloc. Addressing his ongoing trial, the Prime Minister firmly ruled out any plea bargain and expressed willingness to participate in mediation. He also affirmed that judicial reform has not been abandoned and indicated his intention to pursue necessary changes during his next term, aiming for broad consensus this time.