From Abu Dhabi to Cairo: The October 7 warnings Netanyahu chose to ignore

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu postponed a state commission of inquiry into the October 7 attack, arguing it would be long and divisive. However, not initiating an inquiry has left lingering questions. Egypt and the UAE warned Netanyahu of an impending attack before it happened, details remain disputed, and Netanyahu accused former Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar of knowing about warnings.

Netanyahu and Bar are engaging in a political argument through statements, media reports, and threats of lawsuits, leaving the public to judge conflicting claims without a full record. Without a commission, the campaign focuses on speculation about what happened before the attack. Netanyahu wants to move the election focus from October 7's failures to his actions since then, highlighting his experience, resolve, and the ongoing threats.

However, the recent reports about the period leading up to October 7 dominate the agenda, making it difficult for Netanyahu to avoid questions about his actions before the attack.