Israel’s security cabinet is expected to convene for the first time since October 5, according to public broadcaster KAN.
The scheduled gathering follows reports that the cabinet instructed the military to intensify preparations for a potential attack on Iran and a wider military confrontation.
Lawmaker Gadi Eisenkot urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a letter to halt unnecessary military operations until a new government is formed. Eisenkot told Netanyahu that he currently heads a transitional government lacking the confidence of the Knesset, and that only 46 lawmakers support his continuation in office.
Netanyahu’s office dismissed the letter in a statement as an irresponsible move and an overt attempt to politicize security issues.
Eisenkot questioned why his request for an operational briefing was rejected and why the government delayed a meeting of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee to next week. He stated that he will not allow a vacuum in oversight of a government that has lost the confidence of the Knesset.
Opposition circles expressed fear that Netanyahu might launch a military strike against Iran to create a state of emergency. This could pave the way for a unity government involving Netanyahu and Eisenkot.
Eisenkot opposes such an arrangement. Netanyahu told reporters that forming a unity government is possible because the people know how to unite in times of hardship.
Israeli law does not restrict a caretaker government from launching military attacks, though any action requires approval from the security cabinet.
Since June 2025, Israel has waged two wars against Iran, which responded with ballistic missile and drone attacks. Washington and Tel Aviv accuse Tehran of pursuing nuclear and missile programs that threaten Israel and allied countries, while Iran maintains its nuclear program is peaceful.
