Netanyahu Pushed for Iran Attack, But Was Blocked by Chief of Staff Zamir

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently pushed for an attack on Iran, but was reportedly opposed by Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, according to a report in The New York Times citing three security officials and three sources briefed on the matter. Five of these sources suggested that a renewed conflict in the coming weeks is still possible, as another war with Iran could encourage the formation of a unity government led by Netanyahu. Zamir reportedly became convinced that Netanyahu was pushing for a less overt operation against Iran, but believed even a "small" action could lead to miscalculation and an Iranian attack on Israel during the sensitive election period.

The New York Times report aligns with previous accounts suggesting Netanyahu intended to launch an attack before the elections. CNN reported that U.S. President Donald Trump did not give Netanyahu the "green light" for such an operation. The reports also follow publications detailing disputes between Netanyahu and Zamir, particularly after statements by Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz against Iran, and amid a mysterious attack in Iraq. The IDF Spokesperson's office stated that military considerations are "solely security, professional, substantive, and state-related."

According to reports, the IDF feared miscalculation with Iran during the election period. News 12 reported that Zamir recently received instructions from the political echelon regarding action against Iran and requested an in-depth discussion and signed legal authorizations before proceeding. A security official noted that such an operation could lead to a rapid confrontation with Iran at a critical time, causing a misjudgment of the situation. The atmosphere at a discussion on Sunday at the Palmachim base, described as a peak moment in the dispute between Netanyahu and Zamir, was reportedly very tense.

Political sources speculated that Zamir might not remain in his position if Netanyahu wins the election, though both Netanyahu and Katz denied these claims. Security analyst Ron Ben-Yishai referenced a report by Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat, which stated that Iraq suspects two sites storing air defense systems, likely optical-guided anti-aircraft missiles transferred from Iran, were hit in recent airstrikes. These missiles were intended for pro-Iranian militias in eastern Iraq as a forward defense against Israeli aircraft and drones in case of an Israeli attack on Iran.

One such airstrike by the Israeli Air Force, reportedly carried out with drones or long-range missiles, occurred days prior and was reported by a few Arab media outlets. Israel and the Iraqi government have not confirmed or denied the strike. Netanyahu reportedly aimed to assist the Saudis and Kurds in northern Iraq, who are also targeted by militias. Zamir, however, felt that Israel's previous actions, partly with American involvement, were sufficient. He worried that media reports could compel Iran to aid its loyal Shiite militias, potentially even financially, to enable the Quds Force to pay salaries.

CNN reported, based on two American and one Israeli security source, that Netanyahu was pursuing new attacks against Iran, but American officials asked him to postpone them until the Trump administration was ready for joint operations. The Israeli security source told CNN, "Netanyahu really wanted and tried to convince Trump to carry out a joint attack on Iran before the elections, and Trump did not give the green light." The Prime Minister's Office responded by calling the report "fake news."

Separately, the operation in Hebron, launched after a deadly attack that killed two IDF soldiers, also became a point of contention between the IDF command and the political echelon before the elections. While forces continue extensive searches, arrests, and demolitions, the IDF believes the operation's limited operational results warrant re-evaluation. At a meeting involving Netanyahu and Katz, the Chief of Staff presented his position that it was time to end the operation, but the Prime Minister and Defense Minister disagreed and ordered its continuation.