Netanyahu Denies Reports of Dismissing Chief of Staff Ahead of Elections

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a strong statement on Monday evening, hours before polls opened, vehemently denying reports that he intended to dismiss Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir after the elections. Netanyahu stated unequivocally that he plans to continue working with Zamir in the future.

"More fake news on the panic channels 12 and 13 on election eve: I do not intend to fire the Chief of Staff, and we will continue to work together for Israel's security," Netanyahu wrote in his announcement, calling the reports "fake news."

The Prime Minister also addressed his security and diplomatic goals, declaring, "I do intend to permanently remove the Iranian nuclear threat. I will do this together with my friend President Trump, and we will also sign peace agreements with additional countries."

These remarks followed earlier reports suggesting disagreements between Netanyahu and Zamir over military operations concerning Iran, and that Zamir would not continue in his role if Netanyahu formed the next government. The Prime Minister's office had previously dismissed these claims as "complete fake news from beginning to end."

Defense Minister Israel Katz also strongly refuted the reports, calling them an "utter fabrication and lie" intended to harm the Likud party before the elections. Katz recalled that he himself had recommended Zamir for the position and emphasized that they continue to work together for the country's security.