Netanyahu and IDF chief clash over Iran strike before Israeli elections

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir clashed over a proposed military action against Iran days before Israel's elections, with Zamir demanding formal authorization and in-depth discussion before proceeding. The action, directed by the political echelon, would reportedly trigger rapid escalation into a confrontation with Iran. Zamir and IDF leadership expressed concern the move could exploit the Iran front for political gain ahead of Tuesday's vote, prompting Netanyahu to deny the report. Opposition leaders Gadi Eisenkot, Yair Golan, and Avigdor Liberman backed Zamir's caution, accusing Netanyahu of risking soldiers' lives for political survival. Netanyahu dismissed the claims, asserting Iran was attempting to interfere in the elections.