Lapid Slams Netanyahu Over Election Security Warnings

Opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday following a security briefing Lapid received from the premier. Earlier in the day, Netanyahu had issued an unusual warning, stating there were signs that Israel's enemies might attempt to attack ahead of the upcoming elections. Lapid, after his briefing, stated that security threats require professional and responsible handling, asserting that "Israel's security and IDF bases are not a backdrop for election videos."

Despite not divulging specifics of the information presented, Lapid conveyed that the defense establishment is prepared for the elections and there is no reason to cause public panic. He linked Netanyahu's security concerns to the IDF's personnel shortages and the issue of ultra-Orthodox conscription. "The Chief of Staff raised 10 red flags about a shortage of combat soldiers and burnout in the IDF. If Netanyahu is so concerned about the security situation, he should enlist the 15,000 ultra-Orthodox men who are missing from the IDF," Lapid attacked.

The security briefing concluded a day of political confrontation sparked by Netanyahu's earlier remarks. During the afternoon, the Prime Minister visited the Tel Nof Air Force base, describing it as an "urgent discussion" and warning, "We have signs that ahead of the elections, our enemies will try to attack us." He added, "Don't mess with us, not now and not ever. Our long arm will reach you anywhere, anytime."

However, a Channel 13 report suggested the Tel Nof visit was planned a week in advance, not due to a sudden security development, questioning how it was presented as "urgent." While this doesn't disprove the existence of new intelligence or a real threat, it raised questions about the framing. The warning prompted immediate backlash from opposition leaders demanding clarification. Lapid requested an urgent security update, while National Unity party leader Gadi Eisenkot sought confirmation that it was a "real threat and not a political maneuver." Yisrael Beiteinu leader Avigdor Lieberman called not to use Israel's security to disrupt the elections, while Ofer Cassif of Hadash-Ta'al urged taking the warning seriously.

In parallel, the National Unity party petitioned the Likud's legal advisor to remove a video Netanyahu posted from the Tel Nof visit. The party claimed filming at the Air Force base raised concerns about the use of public assets for election propaganda and associating the IDF with Netanyahu and the Likud. The party demanded the video's removal within four hours. Lapid's demand for a briefing led to the security update with Netanyahu that evening. Following the briefing, Lapid acknowledged security threats needing "professional and responsible" handling but maintained the defense system is prepared and the public should not panic, redirecting criticism towards Netanyahu and the ultra-Orthodox conscription issue.