Netanyahu accused of ‘fear-mongering’ over warning of attack before vote by rival

Jerusalem, Sept 30 — Opposition leader Yair Lapid has accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of fear-mongering over warnings of potential attacks ahead of the October 27 elections. Lapid, speaking after a late-night meeting with Netanyahu, stated that the polls show Netanyahu's position is closely contested. He emphasized that there is no reason to panic the public and that security threats must be addressed in a professional and responsible manner.

Lapid also criticized Netanyahu for disregarding warnings prior to the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, which resulted in the deadliest assault on Israel in history. The opposition leader further criticized Netanyahu for making a recent election campaign video at an Israeli military base, arguing that military installations are not suitable for political rallies.

Netanyahu's office confirmed they provided Lapid with an intelligence briefing after he requested it in response to Netanyahu's warnings, outlining potential threats from adversaries ahead of the elections. In a separate video, Netanyahu vowed retaliation against enemies if they attack and threatened Hamas leaders abroad. Meanwhile, Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a video statement threatening Hamas leaders based outside Gaza, following the killing of a commander in the north of the territory.