Netanyahu and IDF Chief of Staff Zamir dispute over proposed Iran operation ahead of elections

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir are said to have clashed over a proposed military operation that could heighten tensions with Iran just days before national elections, according to N12 News. The report said Zamir received a directive from political leaders to carry out the action, which security officials warned could "trigger a rapid escalation into a confrontation with Iran." Zamir reportedly asked for a detailed discussion and formal approval before proceeding.

Sources familiar with the matter expressed concern that the political leadership might be attempting to use the Iran front for electoral advantage. Netanyahu denied the report on Channel 14’s The Patriots, stating, "there is no confrontation" and > "someone is trying to obscure the fact that Zamir himself had said Iran was attempting to interfere in the elections."

Yashar party chairman Gadi Eisenkot said he supports Zamir’s caution and warned the prime minister against using the IDF for political purposes, adding, "I have full confidence in IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir and the IDF commanders, who act with professional responsibility and an absolute commitment to the nation’s security."

Democrats party chair Yair Golan also backed Zamir on social media, noting that any military action must have a clear security need and strategic purpose. Avigdor Liberman of Yisrael Beytenu described the alleged plan as a betrayal of state security.

The disagreement comes as Israel prepares for elections scheduled for next Tuesday, a vote that opposition figures say will determine the country’s political direction.