(JTA) — Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz responded to former Israeli security officials who are publicly criticizing a potential air strike on Iran.
During a meeting of the Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee on Tuesday to discuss Israel’s current security situation, Gantz appeared to slam former Mossad chief Meir Dagan, Gantz’s predecessor Gabi Ashkenazi and former Shin Bet chief Yuval Diskin for their negative comments about an Israeli air strike to stop Iran’s nuclear program, according to Israeli media reports.
"The Iranian issue is dynamic and very few people know what is there and what is not there; what is possible and what is impossible. Quite a few people boast about knowing things that they don’t know. There is a big gap between the professional dialogue that should be held in the right forums and the public chatter that is taking place," Gantz said.
All three former officials have publicly questioned whether an attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities would have a dramatic impact in stopping the Iranian nuclear program.
In addition, Gantz noted that Iran “has yet to make the decision to cross the threshold” of constructing a nuclear weapon.
He added that the IDF is “super ready” to deal with any potential conflict.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
