Israel’s Eisenkot urges Netanyahu to exercise ‘prudence’ on security issues

Israeli security chief Gadi Eisenkot has urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to exercise caution on security matters, warning that deploying forces without an immediate threat could undermine democracy and public trust. This comes amid speculation of potential renewed attacks on Iran. During the recent elections, Netanyahu had warned of the existential threat posed by Tehran and called for its government's overthrow.

Eisenkot cautioned Netanyahu against using military action as a means to secure his political future, stating that such decisions should wait until a new government is sworn in. Netanyahu's office rejected Eisenkot's warning, accusing him of politicizing Israeli national security and claiming all decisions were made solely for security reasons in coordination with the security services.

While neither Eisenkot nor Netanyahu's blocs secured a majority in the recent election, Israeli President Isaac Herzog appointed Eisenkot to attempt forming a government. Netanyahu has called for a broad coalition that includes his party, urging lawmakers to set aside considerations and form a national unity government in the face of Iranian threats.