Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he does not support launching another preemptive strike against Iran before Israel’s parliamentary election on October 27, 2026.
Speaking to Israel’s Army Radio on Wednesday, October 14, Netanyahu rejected suggestions that he was seeking a new military confrontation to influence the election.
However, he warned that Israel would respond forcefully if Iran or its regional allies launched an attack.
“It is not convenient for us, it’s no good,” Netanyahu said when asked about a possible preemptive strike, according to Reuters.
Netanyahu Addresses Iran Tensions Ahead of Israeli Election
Netanyahu’s comments come amid continued tensions between Israel and Iran.
The United States and Israel launched attacks against Iran on February 28, triggering Iranian retaliation against Israel and several Gulf states.
Although Israel and Iran have not exchanged direct fire since June, the wider regional conflict continues.
Netanyahu also responded to accusations from political opponents that he might use another military confrontation to strengthen his position before the election.
“Even if Iran fires missiles at us they will blame me,” he said.
The prime minister declined to discuss whether Israel might consider a preemptive strike after October 27. He also provided no details about his recent conversations with Washington concerning Iran.
Meanwhile, Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement has intensified attacks against Saudi Arabia.
A strike on Riyadh airport on Saturday reportedly killed 13 people. Other attacks have targeted Saudi energy infrastructure.
Asked whether Israel was helping Saudi Arabia respond to the attacks, Netanyahu declined to provide details.
Israel Warns Hezbollah Against Further Attacks
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a separate warning to Hezbollah during a visit to southern Lebanon.
Katz said Israel could expand its military operations if the Iran-backed Lebanese group launched new attacks.
He warned that Hezbollah could lose additional territory in southern Lebanon, including areas near Nabatieh and the Litani River.
According to Katz, Israeli forces are prepared for another military operation.
He also warned that renewed fighting could displace approximately one million Shiite residents and threaten Hezbollah’s stronghold in Beirut.
Israel launched airstrikes and a ground invasion in southern Lebanon earlier this year after Hezbollah attacked Israel in response to strikes against Iran.
The fighting has already forced hundreds of thousands of Lebanese residents to leave their homes.
Netanyahu’s latest statements suggest Israel is not currently seeking another direct confrontation with Iran before the election. Nevertheless, the possibility of further military escalation remains.
