Netanyahu still maintains military dominance despite electoral setback. Defense Minister: Military operations can be carried out without opposition approval

Israel held a parliamentary election on October 27. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s camp won far fewer seats than the 61 seats needed to maintain power. Afterwards, Israeli President Isaac Herzog assigned Netanyahu’s political rival and former Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot to try to form a new government. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said on the 12th that even if the election is setback, Netanyahu still does not need to obtain permission from the opposition to order new military operations.

Eisenkot called on Netanyahu to exercise restraint when he threatened to strike Iran, warning that the use of force in the absence of a "direct and imminent threat" could have catastrophic consequences for Israel's democracy and the trust of its citizens, AFP reported.

Two hours after Eisenkot met with Natanyahu on the 12th, the two said in a brief joint statement that Natanyahu and his military advisers had informed Eisenkot of "the security and diplomatic challenges currently facing Israel" and the two sides agreed to maintain contact.

Although Natanyahu and Eisenkot agreed to stay in contact, Katz said on

Katz emphasized that the outgoing ruling coalition has demonstrated a firm stance and prudent judgment in dealing with the Iran issue, and has maintained comprehensive coordination with the Israel Defense Forces. We will continue to adopt the same approach when the situation requires it in the future.