Bennett Slams Netanyahu's Election-Eve Security Warning

Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent security warning, suggesting it was politically motivated and alarmist. Netanyahu had cautioned that Israel's enemies might attempt attacks as the country approaches elections. Bennett questioned the timing and delivery of the warning, stating he was unimpressed by any new intelligence and implying Netanyahu was willing to "subordinate everything to political interest."

Bennett contrasted Netanyahu's approach with his own when facing security threats, stating he would convene military and intelligence chiefs to "manage the event" rather than immediately alerting the public. "You issue warnings next to a fighter jet, go to the media and alarm all of Israel," Bennett said, questioning Netanyahu's motives and suggesting he should "deal with the country's security, and if you don't know how to do it, go home."

Bennett further argued that the primary security threat facing Israel is not external enemies, but rather a critical shortage of soldiers in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). He criticized the government for failing to provide the necessary manpower for the army, particularly in light of the ongoing debate over the conscription of ultra-Orthodox men. "The great danger to Israel's security today is that we have no soldiers," Bennett stated.

He also warned about the demographic implications of the ultra-Orthodox population, stating that their numbers are growing rapidly and that educational systems within the community are teaching against the IDF, Zionism, and democracy. Bennett pledged that if his party returns to power, they would enforce the conscription of ultra-Orthodox men, linking military service to state funding.