Ex-Shin Bet Chief Warns Netanyahu May Escalate Conflict for Political Gain

Former Shin Bet head Yoram Cohen has voiced concerns that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu might deliberately initiate a large-scale military escalation ahead of parliamentary elections to secure his position and avoid defeat. Cohen stated in an interview with Kan Bet radio that such a scenario is deeply worrying, particularly amid reports of a potential new operation against Iran. Now holding the second position on the "Yashar!" party list, Cohen expressed doubt that the government's national security decisions are always solely in the state's interest.

While Cohen is unaware of specific signs of an impending attack on Israel, he suggested that the Israeli leadership itself could be the instigator of a new escalation. He recalled Netanyahu previously showing a willingness to consider external factors in security-related decisions, and suggested that election proximity and poll results could influence the Prime Minister's actions. Cohen specifically addressed the possibility of a preemptive strike, noting that political leadership can always find a pretext for a sudden military operation.

When asked directly by journalist Liat Regev if he feared a deliberate military escalation for political purposes, Cohen confirmed he considered it a possibility, though he hoped the IDF Chief of Staff would prevent unjustified military actions. He cited reports of Netanyahu's contacts with the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump as a cause for concern, referencing media claims that Netanyahu had urged Washington to expedite a strike on Iran, a proposal the U.S. reportedly did not support.

Cohen believes that discussing such actions before elections warrants attention, as a military confrontation could potentially alter the domestic political landscape. He stressed, however, that his statements are political assessments and not proof of the government preparing for war to retain power, and he presented no concrete information about a decision to launch a new operation.

The discussion occurs against a backdrop of regional tension. The government extended a special home front preparedness status until November 4, citing security assessments of high risk to civilians. This extension indicates that the possibility of renewed escalation is factored into civil defense planning. The volatile situations in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, along with Iran's potential actions requiring U.S. alignment, add to the uncertainty. Netanyahu himself has previously warned of Hamas potentially attempting to influence the election campaign through attacks.