This article is from: srnnews.com
Netanyahu, Eisenkot Hold Security Talks Following Warnings Over Possible Military Action Against Iran
By The Media Line Staff
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met opposition lawmaker Gadi
Eisenkot in Jerusalem on Thursday for a briefing on Israel’s security
and diplomatic situation, following Eisenkot’s request for regular
intelligence updates and concerns about another military confrontation
with Iran.
Eisenkot, chairman of the Yashar party, had asked Attorney General
Gali Baharav-Miara on Wednesday to intervene over his access to
security assessments. He argued that he was entitled to ongoing
briefings as the lawmaker tasked with forming a government,
particularly because there was no official opposition leader.
The meeting took place at the Prime Minister’s Office and was
confirmed in a joint statement. Netanyahu’s military secretary, Maj.
Gen. Guy Markizano, was scheduled to participate.
Eisenkot’s appeal came after reports that Netanyahu favored military
action against Iran despite opposition from senior security officials.
Without naming Iran, Eisenkot warned in his letter that military
operations lacking immediate necessity could have “devastating
consequences” for Israeli democracy. He also cautioned the prime
minister against putting security chiefs in “a grave constitutional
conflict.”
Meanwhile, Israeli defense officials are preparing for several
possible outcomes of the continuing diplomatic efforts between
Washington and Tehran.
American officials have pursued additional negotiating channels over
the past two weeks, seeking an agreement that could avert another
confrontation.
Israeli security agencies have been reviewing contingency plans in
case those negotiations fail or Iran launches an unexpected attack.
A particular concern is that either Washington or Tehran could
initiate hostilities shortly after diplomatic discussions break down,
leaving Israel with limited warning before fighting begins.
Military assessments include the possibility of an Israeli preemptive
strike if Iran moves to resume missile and drone attacks against
Israeli territory.
Officials are also considering the threat to American military
personnel and installations in the event of renewed hostilities.
Iran could target US military interests, including facilities located
in Israel, where thousands of American troops are stationed alongside
advanced military aircraft and weapons systems.
Israeli political and defense leaders held several senior-level
discussions Wednesday concerning the possibility of further military
developments involving Tehran.
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