Tensions flare in Israeli war cabinet as far-right minister accuses military chief of fear

A heated confrontation erupted during a recent Israeli cabinet meeting between Settlements and National Projects Minister Orit Strock and IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, with Strock implying that the military chief was cowardly over his support for a partial hostage deal with Hamas.

Zamir raised the contentious issue of a hostage exchange despite it not being officially on the meeting’s agenda, advocating for the acceptance of the deal, Caliber.Az reports, citing Israeli media.

This stance triggered strong pushback from far-right lawmaker Strock, who, citing a Biblical verse, admonished the military leadership: “Is there anyone afraid and disheartened? Let him go back to his home, lest the courage of his comrades flag like his.”

The tension escalated when Zamir defended his position, emphasizing his dual responsibilities: “I have two missions, preventing a nuclear Iran and destroying Hamas.” Undeterred, Strock reiterated the verse, underscoring her challenge to his resolve.

In a marked escalation, Zamir reportedly raised his voice and asserted his proactive approach, stating he had personally called for operations in Iran and supported strikes “everywhere.” He declared, “No one is fearful and fainthearted.” Zamir concluded with a pointed retort: “If you want blind discipline, bring somebody else.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu weighed in, aligning with Zamir’s position, stating, “I don’t want blind discipline,” reinforcing the importance of hierarchical order while rejecting unquestioning obedience.

By Vafa Guliyeva