Ex-Shin Bet Chief Warns of Netanyahu's 'Foreign Considerations' Ahead of Elections
Translated & summarized from Kan News by baba
Former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen warned that Prime Minister Netanyahu might escalate security situations before elections due to "foreign considerations." Cohen described Israel's current security status as "complete stagnation" and criticized the government's inaction on plans for Gaza. He also addressed concerns about Hamas's continued strength and commented on political maneuvering regarding potential government formations.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen fears Netanyahu may escalate security situations before elections.
- Cohen cited "foreign considerations" in Netanyahu's decisions as a cause for concern.
- He described Israel's current security situation as "complete stagnation on all fronts."
- Cohen warned that Hamas must be stopped from strengthening in Gaza before it reaches pre-October 6th levels.
- He commented on party leader Gadi Eisenkot's pledge to end Hamas control of Gaza within 18 months.
- Cohen also addressed Avigdor Lieberman's stance on minority governments.
Former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen expressed concern that Prime Minister Netanyahu might escalate security situations before the upcoming elections, citing "foreign considerations" in his decisions. Cohen, who is also a former number two in the Yesh Atid party, stated in an interview with Kan News that while he hopes it won't happen, finding justification for security escalations is always possible. He finds Netanyahu's potential for such actions particularly worrying given his standing in the polls.
Cohen described Israel's current security situation as "complete stagnation on all fronts, a static situation." He criticized the current government for not implementing the American 20-point plan and warned that without an "after the day" plan, Israel might be forced into "active action."
He also echoed concerns about Hamas's continued control and strengthening in Gaza, stating, "Hamas is actually controlling the territory, receiving money, strengthening, recruiting people. We must stop this before it reaches the dimensions it had before October 6th." This statement follows a recent declaration by party leader Gadi Eisenkot, who vowed to ensure Hamas no longer controls Gaza within 18 months of entering the Prime Minister's office.
Addressing comments made by Yisrael Beiteinu chairman Avigdor Lieberman regarding his party's refusal to support a minority government, Cohen stated his party is working to form a government of 61 "Zionist, state-minded" Knesset members. He questioned Lieberman's statement, suggesting it was unhelpful to their bloc.
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