Netanyahu Questions No-Betrayal Claim but Urges Shin Bet Chief to Investigate October 7 Events

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed conspiracy theories alleging betrayal within Israel's security forces during the October 7 Hamas attack, stating he does not believe any betrayal occurred but that Shin Bet chief David Zini should investigate the matter. The remarks were revealed by Channel 14 panelist Avi Shoshan ahead of a podcast episode featuring Netanyahu. When asked why he was confident no betrayal took place, Netanyahu reiterated his view that while there was a serious intelligence failure, there was no betrayal, yet he emphasized the need for further inquiry by the Shin Bet.

Netanyahu has previously dismissed claims of betrayal, including during a Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee meeting about six months ago. Despite his stance, some politicians like Likud MK Tali Gottlieb have promoted conspiracy theories, accusing security officials of collusion with Hamas. Gottlieb notably exposed the identity of a Shin Bet officer, a move condemned by the agency and intelligence community for endangering lives. The Shin Bet chief himself has publicly stated that no betrayal or collaboration occurred within the security apparatus.

The conspiracy theories have also spread online, including a fabricated video shared by Netanyahu's son, Yair Netanyahu, which falsely claimed insider betrayal within the Israeli Air Force during the October 7 attack. The video contained numerous inaccuracies about the Air Force's capabilities and procedures and was later deleted by Yair. Official sources have repeatedly refuted these claims, emphasizing the need to focus on correcting intelligence failures rather than spreading unfounded accusations.

The ongoing debate highlights tensions within Israeli politics and society regarding the handling and interpretation of the October 7 events. Netanyahu’s call for investigation by the Shin Bet chief suggests a cautious approach to addressing public concerns while maintaining the official position that no betrayal took place.