Netanyahu and IDF Chief of Staff Zamir clashed over an operation that could lead to a conflict with Iran. The IDF fears that Netanyahu could exploit the tensions with Iran for political gain ahead of the elections, and a miscalculation could lead to a dangerous escalation. Zamir refused to act without a full security assessment, legal investigation and written approval from the political leadership.

Netanyahu and IDF Chief of Staff Zamir clashed over an operation that could lead to a conflict with Iran. The IDF fears that Netanyahu could exploit the tensions with Iran for political gain ahead of the elections, and a miscalculation could lead to a dangerous escalation. Zamir refused to act without a full security assessment, legal investigation and written approval from the political leadership.