Netanyahu, Israeli army chief clash over possible Iran strike before election

A sharp dispute has erupted between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir over political directives concerning Iran, according to a report aired by Israel’s Channel 12.

The report revealed concerns within Israel that Netanyahu may launch a strike against Iran just hours before the elections, in an attempt to secure his political position.

Gadi Eisenkot, a rival candidate in the election, voiced his support for Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir after the report, which has raised alarm in Israeli circles.

Netanyahu dismissed the Channel 12 report as “nonsense” during an interview with Channel 14, while the Israeli military did not immediately comment on the matter.

Netanyahu has previously stressed the need to “topple” the Iranian regime, warning of a possible Iranian attack before the elections aimed at disrupting the vote.