Israeli Minister Warns of Potential Iranian Attack, Cites 'Unfinished Business'

An Israeli government minister, Amichai Chikli, has stated that Israel is preparing for the possibility of an Iranian offensive action in the near future, emphasizing that the preparations are primarily defensive. Chikli remarked, "We have unfinished business in Iran" and stressed the need to be ready for any scenario.

Chikli also criticized the performance of Tzachi Hanegbi, the National Security Advisor, arguing that Hanegbi failed to challenge the security establishment's assumptions, a key role of the National Security Council (NSC). He described Hanegbi as a "very weak" head of the NSC, suggesting he could have offered a more nationalistic perspective aligned with the Prime Minister's agenda. Chikli asserted that the NSC, established after the Yom Kippur War, is intended to be an assessment body providing an independent counterpoint to the military's influence.

Furthermore, Chikli strongly condemned Avigdor Lieberman, head of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, calling him an "violent person" convicted of assaulting a minor and involved in corruption scandals. Chikli criticized Lieberman's proposal for a law preventing a prime minister under indictment from serving, contrasting it with his own view that individuals convicted of violent offenses should be barred from public office. He also dismissed Lieberman's representation of the Russian-speaking public in Israel.

Regarding the meeting between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the U.S. Secretary of Defense, Chikli stated he was unaware of the specifics but believed the meeting indicated significant defensive preparations. He noted that Iran might be considering actions to shift the balance, referencing a past near-fatal attack attempt on Israel. Chikli also highlighted the significance of U.S. President's public support for Netanyahu, suggesting it showed Netanyahu's resilience during difficult times.

Chikli dismissed concerns about the Likud party's standing in opinion polls, calling them misleading campaign tools. He asserted that the party is not in a state of panic, pointing to a substantial base of Likud voters. He contrasted the current situation in Lebanon with the Second Lebanon War, stating that Hezbollah has lost significant leadership and military capabilities, a fact he believes the public recognizes. Chikli concluded by praising Netanyahu's achievements despite immense pressure.