Netanyahu Sought Iran Strike Before Election, IDF Chief Opposed It

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly sought to initiate a strike against Iran prior to the recent Knesset elections, but faced opposition from IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir. Despite Zamir's reservations, the possibility of an attack remains, according to Ynet. The New York Times, citing defense officials and informed sources, reported that Zamir had become convinced Netanyahu was pursuing some form of operation against Iran, though smaller than an overt strike. Sources did not specify the nature of this operation, but Zamir reportedly feared even a limited action could lead to miscalculation, potentially prompting Iran to attack Israel during the sensitive election period. However, some sources indicated that the chance of renewed hostilities in the coming weeks persists, with a potential war with Iran possibly leading to a unity government headed by Netanyahu.

This report follows earlier publications suggesting Netanyahu's intention to strike Iran before the election. CNN reported that U.S. President Donald Trump prevented such a move, withholding approval. According to American and Israeli security officials cited by CNN, the U.S. requested Netanyahu postpone any strikes until the Trump administration was prepared for joint operations. An Israeli security official told CNN that Netanyahu had indeed tried to persuade Trump to conduct a joint strike before the election, but Trump did not give the green light. The Prime Minister's office dismissed this report as "fake news."

The New York Times' publication also emerged amid reports of friction between Netanyahu and Zamir. This tension reportedly stemmed from statements by Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz against Iran, as well as a mysterious strike in Iraq. The IDF spokesperson stated on October 26 that the army's considerations were "exclusively related to security, professionalism, the mission, and state interests." Political sources speculate Zamir might not remain in his post if Netanyahu wins the election, though both the Prime Minister and Katz have denied this.

Earlier reports from Israel's Channel 12 indicated Zamir had received instructions from political leadership to conduct an operation against Iran. Zamir reportedly demanded a thorough discussion and signed documents outlining the legal basis for such an action. The atmosphere during a key discussion on October 25 at the Palmachim Air Force base was described as "very difficult." Separately, a disagreement arose over an operation in Hebron, launched after a deadly October 23 terror attack. Zamir advocated for concluding the operation, but Netanyahu and Katz ordered its continuation. The IDF believes the operation's necessity should be re-evaluated given its limited results.

Regarding the Iraq incident, Ynet military correspondent Ron Ben-Yishai referenced a report from Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat. Iraq suspects two sites with air defense systems, possibly optical-guided anti-aircraft missiles supplied by Iran to its loyalist factions, were targeted last week. Ben-Yishai suggested the Israeli Air Force may have conducted a strike days prior using drones or long-range precision missiles, with limited reporting by Arab media. Israel has not confirmed this, and the Iraqi government offered no confirmation or denial. Netanyahu reportedly aimed to aid Saudi Arabia and Kurdish forces in Iraq attacked by pro-Iranian factions, while Zamir believed Israel's and the U.S.'s actions were sufficient.