Jakarta, ThedailyID — Israel’s prime minister-designate, Gadi Eisenkot, has warned outgoing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against launching a military operation against Iran before a new government takes office.
Eisenkot delivered the warning in a letter sent to Netanyahu on Wednesday, November 12. The Yashar Party leader urged him to exercise caution when making major decisions during the political transition.
“I demand that you act with national responsibility during this sensitive period,” Eisenkot wrote, according to The Jerusalem Post.
He also called on Netanyahu to postpone dangerous decisions that could wait until the new government takes office.
“Do not undermine public trust in government institutions and the decision-making process,” Eisenkot said.
Furthermore, Eisenkot asked Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara to intervene and ensure that he receives regular security briefings from the prime minister.
The letter came after reports of a disagreement between Netanyahu and Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir over the possibility of military action against Iran.
Some experts suspect Netanyahu may use security concerns and the prospect of military operations against Iran to maintain his political position amid declining public confidence, according to opinion polls.
Israel remains in political turmoil after no party or bloc secured a parliamentary majority in the recent election. A coalition needs at least 61 seats to form a government.
Eisenkot’s bloc reportedly secured 52 seats, while Netanyahu’s bloc won 48. Arab parties, meanwhile, secured 19 seats, exceeding expectations.
To form a government and replace Netanyahu, Eisenkot would need support from Arab parties to reach the 61-seat threshold. Negotiations and political lobbying are still underway.
Until a new government takes office, Netanyahu will continue serving as caretaker prime minister.
