ISTANBUL
Israeli caretaker Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has discussed the possibility of launching fresh military strikes against Iran with Gadi Eisenkot, who has been assigned the responsibility of forming Israel’s next government, according to Israeli media reports on Friday.
Channel 12 reported that the two leaders met on Thursday, during which Netanyahu shared intelligence information concerning Iran in an effort to explain the potential reasons behind renewed military action.
According to a source familiar with the discussions, the intelligence presented by Netanyahu could influence Eisenkot’s understanding of the prime minister’s intentions regarding another confrontation with Tehran.
However, Channel 12 reported that Eisenkot had not been informed about a visit to Washington by Mossad Director Roman Gofman, who was reportedly discussing the possibility of renewed attacks against Iran. The broadcaster did not clarify whether Eisenkot had intentionally been excluded from information about the visit.
The meeting took place during a period of political uncertainty in Israel. Netanyahu’s political alliance lost its parliamentary majority in the October 27 elections, following which Eisenkot was assigned the task of establishing a new government.
Eisenkot had previously cautioned Netanyahu against undertaking unnecessary military operations before the formation of the incoming administration.
Military Leadership Expresses Reservations About Timing
Meanwhile, Israel’s public broadcaster KAN reported that military Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir supports the possibility of conducting an operation against Iran but considers the present circumstances unsuitable.
According to the broadcaster, Zamir believes any military action should be carefully coordinated with the United States and undertaken only when favourable conditions have been established.
KAN, citing an unidentified security source, reported that the Israeli military does not currently perceive an immediate Iranian threat that would justify another attack.
The source also indicated that military officials were concerned about the possibility of becoming involved in an extended conflict of attrition. The report ruled out the likelihood of renewed hostilities within the coming weeks.
Earlier, Channel 12 had reported disagreements between Netanyahu and Zamir over decisions that could trigger another confrontation with Iran. However, Netanyahu’s office rejected those allegations.
Mossad Chief Seeks American Support In Washington
Separately, Haaretz reported that Mossad chief Roman Gofman had travelled to Washington, where he met CIA Director John Ratcliffe and was expected to hold discussions with US envoy Steve Witkoff.
The visit was reportedly aimed at securing American backing for potential Israeli military operations against Iran.
Channel 13 reported that Gofman intended to present intelligence concerning Iran’s nuclear programme and the development of long-range missile capabilities. He was also expected to raise Israeli allegations that Tehran had breached its commitments under agreements with Washington.
Neither American nor Israeli officials provided detailed comments regarding the reported diplomatic discussions, according to Haaretz.
The diplomatic developments come amid Israeli concerns that Washington and Tehran could reach an agreement that reduces international pressure on Iran without adequately addressing its nuclear activities and missile programme.
At the same time, opposition figures in Israel have expressed concern that major military decisions taken during the political transition could complicate negotiations over the formation of the country’s next government.
PRESS UPDATE