Netanyahu and Eisenkot Meet Amid Tensions After Sharp Exchange

Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the National Unity party and former IDF Chief of Staff, met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Prime Minister's office on Thursday for a diplomatic-security update. The meeting, also attended by the Prime Minister's Military Secretary, Maj. Gen. Guy Marikano, comes amid heightened security tensions with Iran and fears of renewed conflict. The meeting followed a sharp exchange between the two earlier in the day, after Eisenkot urged Netanyahu to avoid "dangerous adventures" before the swearing-in of a new government.

Eisenkot had written to Netanyahu, stating that the activation of security forces without an immediate, unavoidable threat could lead to "devastating consequences for Israeli democracy and citizens' trust in government institutions." He also warned against placing security system leaders in a difficult constitutional conflict. Eisenkot clarified that his remarks pertained to the deployment of security forces on issues not posing an immediate threat.

The Prime Minister's office responded sharply to Eisenkot's comments, asserting that all government decisions were made solely on security grounds and in full coordination with the security establishment. They further stated that Eisenkot's letter was an "irresponsible move" that brought sensitive security matters into public discussion, urging him to act responsibly instead of sowing fear and division. Netanyahu reiterated his call for Eisenkot to join a unity government.