OMM Newsroom
Israeli caretaker Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed a possible resumption of attacks on Iran with Gadi Eisenkot, who has been tasked with forming the next government, Israeli media reported Friday, according to Anadolu Agency.
“Channel 12” reported that Netanyahu met Eisenkot on Thursday and sought to share intelligence on Iran. The broadcaster cited an informed source as saying the intelligence could change Eisenkot’s view of Netanyahu’s motives for resuming attacks.
Eisenkot was not aware that Mossad chief Roman Gofman was visiting Washington to discuss the issue, “Channel 12” reported. It did not say whether he had been deliberately kept uninformed about the visit.
The meeting took place during a political transition in Israel, after Netanyahu’s bloc lost its parliamentary majority in the Oct. 27 elections and Eisenkot was tasked with forming a new government. Eisenkot had warned Netanyahu against carrying out unnecessary military operations before a government was formed.
Israeli military leaders question timing of an operation
Israel’s public broadcaster KAN reported that Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir supports a military operation against Iran but does not consider the current timing appropriate.
Zamir favors coordinating with the United States and selecting suitable timing and conditions for an operation, KAN reported. The broadcaster cited an unnamed security source who said the Israeli army sees no immediate Iranian threat requiring a new attack and has warned against entering a prolonged war of attrition.
The source also ruled out a resumption of the war in the coming weeks. “Channel 12” previously reported disagreements between Netanyahu and Zamir over moves that could lead to a new confrontation with Iran; Netanyahu’s office denied that report.
Gofman meets CIA director in Washington
Separately, “Haaretz” reported Friday that Gofman met CIA Director John Ratcliffe in Washington and was expected to meet US envoy Steve Witkoff. The meetings were part of Israeli efforts to secure Washington’s support for renewed attacks against Iran, the newspaper reported.
“Channel 13” said Gofman would present intelligence on Iran’s nuclear programme and development of long-range missiles, as well as Israeli claims that Tehran had violated agreements with Washington. “Haaretz” reported that the relevant US and Israeli authorities had not commented on details of the visit.
Israeli media reports have also cited concerns that Washington and Tehran could reach an agreement easing pressure on Iran without addressing its nuclear programme or missile capabilities.
The developments come amid concern among parts of the Israeli opposition that military decisions made during the transfer of power could affect the formation of the next government.
