Netanyahu's New Security Doctrine Sparks Fierce Opposition Attacks

Netanyahu detailed plans to definitively dismantle Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Iranian regime, asserting that this is within Israel's capabilities. The doctrine requires a significant budget increase of approximately 450 billion shekels to achieve maximum independence in munitions production, including underground factories. It also focuses on strengthening civilian home front defense, maintaining a technological advantage, countering threats like nuclear weapons and cyber warfare, and forging new regional and international alliances.

Netanyahu also expressed opposition to establishing a Palestinian state, viewing it as a potential launchpad for Iranian attacks, and affirmed his intention to form a broad national government after the elections, including a coalition with Otzma Yehudit. The opposition immediately launched a fierce critique of the doctrine. Opposition leader Yair Lapid dismissed the plan as a collection of inflated slogans that would lead to another October 7, while Naftali Bennett, chairman of the Achva party, questioned the doctrine's allegiance and accused Netanyahu of transferring more money to Hamas than before October 7. Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yashar party, criticized the timing of the release, which occurred nine days before the elections.