“You can’t put the military on high alert and fly abroad,” a senior IDF official said.
By Shula Rosen
IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir will remain in Israel rather than travel to the United States in mid-October, canceling planned meetings with senior American military commanders as the IDF raises its readiness across all sectors, Ynet reported.
The canceled trip would have included meetings with the commander of US Central Command and the chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Iran, other threats, and cooperation between the Israeli and American militaries were expected to be discussed.
Zamir notified his US hosts that “in light of the security situation,” he believed his presence in Israel was necessary rather than managing events from outside the country.
“You can’t put the military on high alert and fly abroad,” a senior IDF official said.
The cancellation preceded a separate public warning from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about a possible attack on Israel before the elections.
Speaking during a visit to the Tel Nof air base, Netanyahu said, “We have indications that, ahead of the elections, our enemies will try to attack us.”
No specific enemy was identified in the prime minister’s remarks. Netanyahu instead directed a warning at any party considering an attack on Israel.
“So from here, from the Air Force base, from the long arm of Israel, I am sending you a message: Don’t mess with us, not now and not ever. Our long arm will reach you anywhere and at any time.”
Netanyahu’s comments prompted Opposition Leader Yair Lapid to request an urgent security briefing and seek clarification about the warning.
Following a late-night security briefing on Tuesday, Lapid said the public had no reason to panic. He also said the elections would go ahead exactly as planned.
Do You Love Israel? Make a Donation - Show Your Support!
Donate to vital charities that help protect Israeli citizens and inspire millions around the world to support Israel too!
Now more than ever, Israel needs your help to fight and win the war -- including on the battlefield of public opinion.
Antisemitism, anti-Israel bias and boycotts are out of control. Israel's enemies are inciting terror and violence against innocent Israelis and Jews around the world. Help us fight back!