Political Commentator Claims Election Timing Behind Intelligence Leaks

Political commentator Itamar Fleishman has strongly criticized recent reports concerning alleged intelligence warnings provided to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prior to the October 7th attacks. Speaking on Channel 14's "Israel HaBoker" program, Fleishman asserted that these reports are part of a fabricated campaign designed to influence upcoming elections.

Fleishman emphasized that all key figures linked to these publications have categorically denied them. He specifically targeted former Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar and Channel 12 for alleged censorship violations and for attempting to deflect responsibility for the intelligence failures. Fleishman argued that the timing of these leaks, coinciding with Netanyahu's visit to the United Arab Emirates, is a deliberate public relations maneuver.

Addressing former Shin Bet head Ronen Bar directly, Fleishman questioned his intention to pursue legal action, stating Netanyahu has parliamentary immunity. He urged Bar to publicly answer questions about the intelligence failures rather than resorting to lawsuits. Fleishman labeled Bar as both the "most failed and most brazen" Shin Bet chief in Israeli history.

Furthermore, Fleishman condemned Channel 12 for what he described as a deliberate and dangerous breach of censorship regarding Netanyahu's flight to the UAE. He argued that this action endangered not only the Prime Minister but also other high-ranking officials on board, including the heads of the Mossad and the National Security Council.

Fleishman concluded by linking the surge in these publications to the current electoral stalemate. He suggested that the opposition's inability to secure a clear majority is fueling the escalation of these attacks, predicting they will intensify as the elections draw nearer.