Lapid says intelligence shows no Iran war expected before Israel’s Oct. 27 election, accusing Netanyahu of using attack fears for political gain

Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid said intelligence available to him gives no indication Israel will go to war with Iran before the Oct. 27 parliamentary election. Speaking to radio station 103 FM, he accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of using warnings about a possible war with Iran or an attack on Israel for electoral gain, Anadolu Agency reported.

Lapid said Netanyahu could dominate the election agenda by warning of an imminent attack or war, and questioned whether that would serve Israel’s interests. He noted that Netanyahu provides him with security and military briefings; based on the intelligence available to him, Lapid said, “no war with Iran is expected before the elections.”

Lapid’s comments followed Netanyahu’s Sept. 29 warning that Israel’s enemies might attempt attacks ahead of the vote. Lapid accused him of spreading fear for political purposes and said there was no reason to alarm the public.

Netanyahu’s office said a Sept. 29 security briefing for Lapid included detailed warnings of possible attacks on various fronts ahead of the election.