Tensions Flare in Security Meeting: IDF Chief Zamir Clashes with Netanyahu
A heated exchange erupts as military and political leaders debate Gaza invasion plans. “Why is your son attacking me?” asks the IDF chief. Netanyahu fires back: “Don’t threaten resignation.”
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Unusual Confrontation Behind Closed Doors
A rare and intense confrontation took place Monday during a high-level Israeli security meeting chaired by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to reports from Kan News and Channel 13.
Tensions reached a boiling point between IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir and the Prime Minister, as disagreements deepened over plans to expand Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.
"Why Is Your Son Writing Against Me?"
According to sources, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir opened his remarks with a pointed challenge: “Why are you attacking me? Why am I being briefed against during a war? And why is your son writing against me?”
Netanyahu responded bluntly: “Don’t threaten resignation in the media. I won’t accept that every time we don’t adopt your plans, you threaten to leave. My son is 33 — he’s an adult.”
The exchange came amid growing rifts over the Prime Minister’s push for a full-scale reoccupation of Gaza — a move that Zamir warned could be a “trap.”
Dispute Over Gaza Strategy
The Chief of Staff reportedly told the Prime Minister: “You’re walking into a trap in Gaza.” Netanyahu replied: “Present your plan for occupying the Strip.” Zamir countered: “I already did. That is the plan.” To which Netanyahu said: “Make the improvements and present it again.”
According to Channel 13, the IDF chief expressed concern that a full invasion would endanger hostages still held in Gaza. Netanyahu retorted: “Your methods haven’t worked — they haven’t freed any hostages.”
Cabinet to Meet Thursday
The security cabinet is now expected to reconvene Thursday at 6:00 PM to discuss and potentially approve Netanyahu’s proposed strategy. Senior figures present at Monday’s meeting included Defense Minister Israel Katz, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, and Operations Directorate Head Maj. Gen. Itzik Cohen.
The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed the meeting took place and said the IDF presented several operational options for Gaza. “The IDF is prepared to implement any decision made by the political-security cabinet,” the statement added.
Military vs. Political Divide Widens
The dispute reflects deepening friction between Israel’s political leadership and its military command. While Netanyahu’s circle reportedly seeks a decisive military victory, including total control over Gaza, senior IDF figures warn that such moves could jeopardize Israeli hostages and deepen regional instability.
The plan currently under consideration includes relocating Gaza’s civilian population to designated “humanitarian zones” — a proposal that has already drawn international scrutiny.