Netanyahu and IDF Chief Clash Over Iran Operation Ahead of Elections

Tensions between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir have escalated significantly just before the elections, with political sources suggesting Zamir might not remain in his post if Netanyahu wins. The core of the dispute centers on disagreements over an operation related to Iran and the continuation of an operation in Hebron. The conflict reportedly peaked during a discussion at the Palmachim base on Sunday.

Zamir received instructions from the political echelon regarding an Iran-related preparatory action, similar to those preceding "Im K'lavia" and "Sha'agat Ha'ari" operations. While Netanyahu and Defense Minister Katz supported the Iran operation, with backing from newly appointed security chiefs, Zamir expressed concerns. He worried that such an action before the elections could lead to miscalculation and an Iranian response, potentially triggering an Iranian attack. The head of the Mossad, Roman Gofman, and the head of the Shin Bet, David Zini, reportedly believed time was not on Israel's side and supported the operation.

A second point of contention involved an operation in Hebron, launched after two soldiers were killed in a terror attack. Zamir had previously declared a state of alert due to fears of miscalculation and signaled to the political echelon that the IDF General Staff sought to avoid provocative statements and actions against Iran. Sources described the atmosphere at the Palmachim meeting as very tense.

Netanyahu's circle criticized Zamir's stance, viewing his opposition as questioning the prime minister's motives and exceeding his authority. They pointed to the support from the Mossad chief, Shin Bet chief, and other senior security officials. Conversely, within the security establishment, Zamir is seen as a crucial safeguard against potentially dangerous moves during a sensitive period. The article suggests that if Netanyahu wins, the current friction might make it difficult for them to continue working together.

Both sides accuse each other of leaking information to the press. Netanyahu's associates claim Zamir's office is behind the leaks, while security officials allege leaks originate from Netanyahu's circle. Netanyahu denied any confrontation with Zamir on the Iran issue, stating "there is no confrontation" in a Channel 14 interview. Defense Minister Katz also dismissed reports of disagreements as false, asserting full coordination between himself, the prime minister, and the IDF. Netanyahu's office called the reports "complete fake news."