Likud Accuses IDF Chief of Staff of Aiding Eisenkot for Personal Gain

Sources within the Likud party have launched a sharp attack against IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, accusing him of leaking details of disputes between himself and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding potential strikes in Iran. The Likud claims Zamir's alleged leaks are intended to benefit Gadi Eisenkot, a former IDF chief of staff, in his bid to lead the government, thereby securing Eisenkot's continued tenure. "The real reason is that the Chief of Staff is betting on Eisenkot," the Likud sources stated, suggesting Zamir is facilitating Eisenkot's extended term through fabricated reports of disagreements with Netanyahu. They posited that Zamir or his associates may have already agreed with Eisenkot on extending his term to a fourth year.

The accusations follow reports of significant disagreements between Netanyahu and Zamir concerning preparations for a military operation in Iran. According to these reports, Zamir opposed unusual military preparations at the current time, fearing they could be interpreted by Tehran as a prelude to an attack, potentially leading to an unintended escalation. The dispute reportedly centered on military readiness measures similar to those taken before previous confrontations, with Zamir concerned that their execution might prompt Iran to launch a preemptive strike or retaliatory action, escalating the situation into war. The possibility that a security escalation close to elections could lead to their postponement was also a background factor.

Political sources have dismissed claims that political considerations influenced these actions. It was also reported that Zamir demanded a thorough discussion and signed legal authorizations from the political echelon. Later, it was reported that a signed document was indeed transferred to the defense establishment, though it remained unclear if it was the document Zamir requested or its content.

Further reports indicated that Netanyahu had stated in private conversations his intention to dismiss Zamir if he won the elections. Concurrently, assessments from individuals familiar with their relationship suggested Zamir's tenure was uncertain if Netanyahu formed the next government. Netanyahu's office vehemently denied these reports, with the Prime Minister clarifying he had no intention of dismissing Zamir and intended to continue working with him for Israel's security. Minister Katz dismissed the reports as a "complete fabrication and lie," emphasizing his own recommendation for Zamir's appointment and denying any intention to launch an attack on Iran before the elections. The IDF also stated that its decisions are based on security and professional considerations but refrained from detailed comment on the closed-door discussions.