Ex-Shin Bet Chief Questions Netanyahu's Knowledge, Warns on Iran Attack

Former Shin Bet head Yoram Cohen has expressed doubt regarding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's claim of not knowing about the Egyptian intelligence chief's visit to Israel. Cohen stated in an interview with 103FM that it is highly unlikely a senior official would visit without the Prime Minister being informed, especially concerning national security. He suggested that if the visit occurred, a senior figure, possibly the head of an organization, must have met with the Egyptian official.

Cohen also voiced concerns about a potential Israeli strike on Iran before the upcoming elections, suggesting it's "very difficult to trust the Prime Minister." He attributed this to the influence of Netanyahu's close circle, whose motives he described as "very questionable." While acknowledging that an "opportunity of a lifetime" to act against Iran might warrant consideration, Cohen expressed hope that the Chief of Staff would prevent an attack based on non-professional considerations.

Furthermore, Cohen strongly criticized the continued proximity of Jonathan Urikh, a close associate of the Prime Minister, to sensitive information, especially given allegations of his ties to Qatar. Cohen described Urikh's alleged funding by an "enemy state" and his alleged influence operations against the Israeli public as "terrible." He argued that Urikh should have been dismissed, not defended and reinstated by the Prime Minister and his lawyer.

Cohen likened the situation surrounding Netanyahu to "rottenness," describing those close to him as simultaneously loyal and corrupt. He concluded by drawing an unusual historical parallel between Netanyahu and the false messiah Shabbetai Tzvi, suggesting Netanyahu's political maneuvering and search for legitimacy across different communities mirrors Tzvi's historical actions.