Netanyahu may launch military operation before election to stay in power: Israeli opposition leader

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may launch a military operation against Iran, Hezbollah or Hamas ahead of the Oct. 27 general election in an effort to remain in power, former Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman warned Tuesday. Speaking at an event in the central Israeli city of Herzliya, Lieberman, who leads the opposition Yisrael Beiteinu party, accused Netanyahu of prioritizing his political survival over national security, according to Israeli newspaper Israel Hayom. "I have no doubt that Netanyahu is actively seeking a military move before the election, whether against Iran, Hezbollah or Hamas," Lieberman said. He claimed the prime minister was motivated by a desire to remain in power rather than security considerations. Lieberman also ruled out Netanyahu's participation in a potential opposition-led government after the election. "Netanyahu cannot even serve as regional cooperation minister in the government. He has to go," he said. Israel's parliament, the Knesset, dissolved on July 17 ahead of the general election scheduled for Oct. 27.