Ex-PM Barak Accuses Netanyahu of Plotting Iran War to Sabotage Government Formation

Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak has sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, alleging that Netanyahu might provoke a military confrontation with Iran to disrupt the formation of the next Israeli government. Barak stated in a television interview on Saturday evening that Netanyahu could intentionally instigate a conflict with Iran to halt coalition negotiations. He asserted that Netanyahu is no longer fit to lead, declaring, "Netanyahu cannot remain prime minister for even one more day."

Barak specifically pointed to the delay in appointing Avigdor Lieberman as chairman of the Knesset's Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, directly blaming Netanyahu for the postponement. "This story with the postponement for a week of the appointment of the chairman of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, it comes from Netanyahu. There is no other explanation except the possibility that Netanyahu is considering the option of war and wants to unleash a military confrontation that will disrupt the formation of the government. This is a provocation," Barak said.

Elaborating on his concerns, Barak recalled two incidents prior to recent elections. One involved Israeli fighter jets flying over Syria and Iraq near the Iranian border, which was presented to the U.S. as military exercises but may have been intended to provoke an Iranian response. Another potential military operation against Iran was reportedly considered days before the election but ultimately abandoned. Barak emphasized that both initiatives lacked official approval procedures and warned that Netanyahu might still pursue such a scenario, aiming to provoke Iran into attacking Israel.

Barak also discussed the challenges of forming the next government, deeming a national unity government with Netanyahu highly unlikely. He believes Lieberman is committed to ousting Netanyahu and will exhaust options with ultra-Orthodox parties first. If those talks fail, Barak suggested a minority government, externally supported by Arab parties not in the coalition, could be formed, potentially gaining later support from some ultra-Orthodox factions. However, Lieberman has expressed opposition to a minority government reliant on Arab party support, preferring a majority coalition of 61 Knesset members.

The appointment of Lieberman to the committee chairmanship is expected on Monday. Barak views the delay by Likud in finalizing this appointment as a worrying sign, linking it to Netanyahu's alleged plans regarding Iran. The Prime Minister's office has denied reports that Netanyahu sought to advance a military strike against Iran before the elections, stating that such an action was not considered at the time.