Ehud Barak Criticizes Netanyahu Over Turkey Tensions, Accuses Him of Political Maneuvering

Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak launched a sharp critique against current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday evening, condemning Netanyahu's handling of the recent tensions with Turkey. Barak accused Netanyahu of acting out of political motives ahead of upcoming elections, describing his approach as "reckless and foolish." Writing on X, Barak stated that Netanyahu's deliberate escalation of tensions with Turkey carries a strong scent of political intent to enter the elections amid security crises that alarm the public.

Barak argued that disputes with Ankara could be managed through quiet diplomatic efforts, emphasizing that Turkey is not comparable to Iran or Syria and that there is no strategic problem with Turkey that cannot be resolved or deferred through discreet coordination with the United States. He concluded his remarks by saying, "Netanyahu has completely lost it."

Further criticizing Netanyahu, Barak claimed the prime minister is no longer focused on Israel's security but rather on his political survival, labeling him a "compulsive gambler" facing an inevitable political defeat in about two months. Barak also expressed concern that Netanyahu's reckless behavior is deeply worrying Israel's few allies and friends in the region and worldwide.

Barak recommended postponing any significant security decisions until after the elections, asserting that Netanyahu's successors, with their superior security experience and judgment, would better serve Israel's security interests. He warned that the damage Netanyahu has already caused over the past three years in security and diplomatic fields will take a long time to repair and urged against further reckless steps that would backfire on Israel like a boomerang.