Israel Security Cabinet Orders Preparations for Attack on Iran

The Israeli Security Cabinet has instructed the military to increase preparations for a potential attack on Iran. According to the Israeli public broadcaster KAN, these directives involve activities that could trigger a full-scale war. The orders come as the cabinet resumes activity after a hiatus since October 5, following national elections held on October 27.

The directives sparked a public confrontation between caretaker Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the Yashar party and the opposition bloc. Eisenkot sent a letter to Netanyahu urging restraint and the avoidance of dangerous moves until a new government is sworn in and wins the confidence of the Knesset. He cited reports that extraneous considerations were affecting security decisions and called for national responsibility during the sensitive transition period.

The Prime Minister's Office rejected these claims, labeling Eisenkot's letter an irresponsible move that politicizes national security. Government officials asserted that all security decisions are made in full coordination with the security establishment. The office further criticized Eisenkot for negotiating with Arab lawmakers, whom it characterized as supporters of terrorism, and urged him to join the current government to fight terrorism instead.