Political tensions in Israel rise after Yair Lapid's accusations against Netanyahu.

The political climate in Israel has become even more tense following recent statements by opposition leader Yair Lapid, who has accused current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of ignoring repeated security warnings before the devastating attack on October 7 carried out by the Islamist group Hamas. During his appearance before a civilian investigative committee, Lapid argued that Netanyahu's obsession with his judicial reform led him to dismiss crucial reports about the growing danger posed by Palestinian militias. Lapid, a former prime minister and leader of the Yesh Atid party, presented evidence that the head of the internal security service, Shin Bet, had already issued alarming warnings in July 2023. According to Lapid, these warnings highlighted the consequences of political polarization in Israel and its impact on national security. In this context, the former prime minister expressed his dismay at recalling that, despite the seriousness of the situation, Netanyahu and his cabinet seemed either poorly informed or, worse, uninterested in taking action. On August 21, 2023, a report from Netanyahu's military secretary, General Avi Gil, also sounded the alarm. This document indicated that nations like Iran and its regional allies had detected a "weakness" on the Israeli side, marked by internal division and a crisis in relations with the United States, a key security ally. Lapid claimed that, despite the seriousness of the report, Netanyahu showed a disinterested attitude. Lapid's revelations have been met with disdain by the Likud party, which claims that the opposition leader is lying. In a statement, the party emphasized that Netanyahu never received warnings about the war in Gaza and that security protocols support him. This political defense has led to an exchange of accusations between both factions, reflecting the intense polarization in the current Israeli political context. The former prime minister did not stop there. He also mentioned that Israeli President Isaac Herzog had received similar reports regarding the state of security, raising questions about the effectiveness of the defense elite and their responsibility for the lack of response to the imminent threat. Lapid did not hesitate to point out that the inaction of the defense authorities, who waited for instructions from political leadership, was a wrong decision and that the catastrophe was ultimately avoidable. The magnitude of the Hamas attack, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 people and the kidnapping of another 251, has led to widespread calls for an investigation into the failures of Israel's security response. Despite public pressure and from high-ranking officials, Netanyahu has rejected the idea of establishing a state investigation commission, generating criticism from both the opposition and civil society. As the Army's internal investigation progresses, the climate of distrust towards Netanyahu's leadership continues to grow. Many Israelis feel insecure about the country's direction and their leaders' ability to protect their lives and sovereignty. The internal situation is further complicated by the perception that the government's focus has shifted to internal political issues rather than national security. This episode has not only left a mark on Israeli politics but has also impacted Israel's relationship with its allies. The crisis of confidence with the United States, which has manifested in a lack of military and political support, is a direct consequence of internal politics and the perception of weakness in Israeli leadership. The next step for Israel is crucial. As Lapid and other opposition leaders demand answers and accountability, the country's future depends on its leaders' ability to address both security and political stability. Internal polarization not only undermines trust in the government but also jeopardizes national security at a time of increasing hostility in the region.