Netanyahu Warns of Election-Eve Attacks; Security Forces See No Concrete Threat

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a warning Tuesday, stating there are "signs that our enemies will try to attack ahead of the elections." Following his statement, Netanyahu held a security assessment meeting concerning Iran, Gaza, and Lebanon. Israel faces a sensitive security period with elections just a month away, and the defense establishment has been preparing for various scenarios.

Despite the Prime Minister's alert, the military does not possess concrete intelligence that alters the current threat assessment. The IDF is preparing for potential escalation across multiple fronts, acknowledging the possibility without specific information pointing to an immediate increase in hostilities. The military emphasizes its responsibility to be ready for such eventualities and avoid taking risks.

Netanyahu, speaking earlier at Tel Nof Air Force Base, declared, "I am sending you a message, do not mess with us. Our long arm will reach you anywhere, anytime." In response to the Prime Minister's warning, opposition leader Yair Lapid requested an urgent security briefing, which was scheduled for later Tuesday night. The two leaders were set to meet after Netanyahu's security consultation.

National Unity party leader Gadi Eisenkot commented on Netanyahu's warning, suggesting that if the threats are real, the opposition leader must be immediately briefed. Eisenkot stressed the importance of separating national security from political campaigns, stating, "It is absolutely forbidden to mix Israel's security with the election system, not even for appearances." He also called for a meeting between himself and Netanyahu.

Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett also issued a warning, asserting that the IDF is on the verge of collapse due to widespread draft evasion encouraged by Netanyahu. Bennett cited the Chief of Staff's warnings about a shortage of 20,000 combat soldiers, criticizing Netanyahu, Interior Minister Moshe Arbel, and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich for ignoring these concerns and weakening the military.