Disagreement Between Israel’s Military Chief and Netanyahu Over Potential Iran Strike

Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir has once again strongly opposed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plans for a military operation against Iran. According to a report by Israel’s Channel 12, Mr. Zamir strongly objected to Mr. Netanyahu’s plans during several recent closed-door security meetings.

He reportedly believes that any military action at this stage would be a completely “reckless decision” due to several factors, including the Republican Party’s defeat in the recent US midterm elections, the resulting decline in Washington’s willingness to become involved in a confrontation with Iran, and Israel’s ongoing domestic political instability.

The report also said that Mr. Netanyahu and Mr. Zamir had a similar disagreement shortly before Israel’s October 27 election. In particular, Mr. Zamir blocked a special directive from Mr. Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz just two days before the election, which could have further escalated tensions with Iran.

Meanwhile, The New York Times reported that Mr. Zamir argued there was no need for an immediate military strike, citing the election as a reason to avoid military action. He also reportedly demanded that Mr. Netanyahu provide full legal authorisation and written documentation before proceeding with any operation.

However, the Prime Minister’s Office dismissed the reports as “biased fake news”. It said it would not comment on information from closed-door security discussions and denied that there had been any plans for an attack before the election.

Meanwhile, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee said in an interview that President Donald Trump prioritises a diplomatic solution, although the option of taking possible measures remains open. According to Mr. Huckabee, several Arab leaders in the Middle East have urged the US president to avoid conflict and give peace a chance.

Source: The Times of Israel