Israeli airstrikes on Gaza escalated overnight, resulting in at least 82 reported deaths according to a statement from the Hamas Ministry. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, amidst ongoing controversies surrounding his legal battles, has sought input from various security leaders.
On Sunday, Netanyahu convened the heads of Mossad, the National Security Council, and Military Intelligence at the IDF Headquarters in Tel Aviv to discuss potential delays in his trial, under the guise of a diplomatic-security issue.
Expectations for National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi and Mossad Chief David Barnea have been low, particularly after Barnea’s lack of response to the recent dismissal of Shin Bet security service chief Ronen Bar. Given Bar’s long-standing participation in security discussions and negotiations for hostage releases, his removal has raised further concerns about the current security dynamics.
Notably, this marks the second occasion Military Intelligence Chief Maj. Gen. Shlomi Binder has been summoned to address Netanyahu’s legal matters, with approval from IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir. Once again, it has been revealed that such calls for intervention were unfounded.
