Israeli caretaker Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly discussed the possibility of resuming military attacks on Iran with Gadi Eisenkot, who has been tasked with forming Israel’s next government, as new reports reveal differing assessments over the timing of another confrontation with Tehran.
Netanyahu discussed renewed attacks on Iran while Eisenkot was reportedly unaware that the head of Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency was visiting Washington to discuss the same issue.
Netanyahu Presents Intelligence on Iran
According to Israel’s Channel 12, Netanyahu held a meeting with Eisenkot on Thursday, during which he sought to present intelligence concerning Iran and the possibility of renewed military action.
The meeting reportedly took place without Eisenkot knowing about the Mossad chief’s visit to the United States, where discussions were also being held concerning Iran.
Channel 12 quoted an informed source who suggested that the intelligence Netanyahu intended to share could influence Eisenkot’s assessment of the prime minister’s motives.
“May change his view of Netanyahu’s motives” for resuming the attacks.
Informed source quoted by Channel 12, referring to EisenkotEisenkot had previously warned Netanyahu against undertaking unnecessary military operations before the formation of the next government. He also demanded to be kept informed of sensitive security developments.
Israeli Army Chief Supports an Attack, but Not Now
Meanwhile, the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation reported that military Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir supports conducting a military operation against Iran, but considers the present timing unsuitable.
Zamir reportedly favours coordination with the United States and selecting appropriate conditions before launching any new operation.
Netanyahu’s Discussions
Reportedly exploring renewed military attacks on Iran and presenting intelligence to Eisenkot.
Zamir’s Assessment
Supports a potential operation but prefers US coordination and more favourable timing.
No Immediate Iranian Threat, Security Source Says
The Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation also cited an unnamed security source who said the military does not currently identify an immediate Iranian threat that would justify launching another attack.
Immediate threat: No urgent Iranian threat requiring a new attack has been identified, according to the unnamed source.
Military concern: The risk of becoming trapped in a prolonged war of attrition.
Near-term outlook: A resumption of the war is considered unlikely over the coming weeks.
The assessment reflects the military’s reported caution about entering another confrontation without appropriate timing, coordination and operational conditions.
Reports of Disagreement Denied by Netanyahu’s Office
Channel 12 had previously reported disagreements between Netanyahu and Zamir over moves that could trigger a renewed confrontation with Iran.
However, Netanyahu’s office denied those reports, rejecting claims of differences between the prime minister and the military chief.
Sources: Israel’s Channel 12 and the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation.
