IDF Fears Netanyahu May Escalate Conflict to Delay Elections

The Israeli military (IDF) is concerned that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu might intentionally escalate a conflict, potentially in Gaza, to disrupt or postpone upcoming elections. This concern resurfaced after Netanyahu publicly warned of an attack that could interfere with the electoral process. While there is no direct evidence linking Netanyahu's warning to a plan to delay elections, the IDF fears he may not seek a complete resolution of all fronts and could reignite a conflict.

Sources within the IDF reportedly stated, "We will not allow a new and unnecessary war." They also noted that Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi, who has faced challenges with a "hostile government," would face his ultimate test if such a scenario unfolded. The military's apprehension stems from Netanyahu's public statement about a threat that could impact the elections, prompting calls for full updates on the situation and measures to safeguard the democratic process.

Netanyahu's office stated that the Prime Minister had instructed his military secretary to brief the opposition leader on recent developments. The exact nature of Netanyahu's warning remains unclear, with no public information available to determine if it pertains to a specific front, a concrete intelligence threat, or a general assessment by the security establishment ahead of the election period. The article also briefly mentions Netanyahu's visit to the UAE and the Libyan front, referencing a secret meeting with Libyan General Khalifa Haftar.