Lapid Accuses Defense Minister of Seeking Scapegoats Ahead of Elections

Opposition Leader Yair Lapid sharply criticized Defense Minister Israel Katz on Tuesday, after Katz suggested that future attacks and terror incidents would be "registered in the names" of opposition leaders. Lapid asserted that the government is attempting to shift blame for its failures onto its rivals. He also stated that based on the information available to him, there is no justification for a dramatic military operation before the upcoming elections.

"The irresponsible and hysterical announcement by the Defense Minister is a gift to Israel's enemies," Lapid declared in response. He accused the government of failing against Hamas, Iran, and Hezbollah, as well as on the international stage, adding, "And now they are blaming the opposition." Lapid claimed that in their desperation to avoid electoral defeat, the government is turning Israel's security into a "circus."

Lapid further warned that the current government's continued tenure would lead to further security disasters and strengthen Iran. MK Yair Golan also reacted to Katz's remarks, accusing the government of subordinating war management to political considerations. "The war management has been conducted irresponsibly according to Netanyahu's political needs," Golan stated, adding, "Israel Katz is in a panic. One should not sit with these people or compromise."

The exchange followed Katz's statement that he and the Prime Minister possess intelligence indicating intentions to attack Israel or carry out attacks on election day or during the election period to influence the results. Katz accused Lapid, Naftali Bennett, and Golan of undermining warnings and claimed their criticism harms deterrence and encourages the enemy.

Addressing reports of a potential escalation with Iran, Lapid reiterated that based on his knowledge, there is no reason to attack Iran or elsewhere before the elections, calling such suggestions "attempts to artificially heat up the front."

Lapid clarified that he does not oppose an attack on Iran but disagrees with its timing. "Elections in a democratic country are important and sacred, part of our strength, and there is no urgency that justifies a dramatic action before them," he argued. When asked if Netanyahu and Katz were provoking Iran, Lapid responded that the lack of justifying intelligence suggests a political motive, similar to "all the videos at army bases."

Lapid also outlined his view on potential attack targets, stating in April 2024 that merely attacking military facilities is insufficient and cowardly. He believes Iran's economic base and infrastructure must be targeted to bring down the regime. However, he stressed that such action must wait until after the elections, requiring coordination with the Americans and respecting the electoral process.