A new book by Haaretz reporters alleges Benjamin Netanyahu was personally warned by the UAE president of a large-scale Hamas offensive before 7 October 2023 but did not act. Netanyahu has denounced the claim as an 'absolute lie'.
Key facts
- A book by Haaretz reporters claims Netanyahu was warned of a Hamas offensive.
- The alleged warning came from the president of the UAE more than a week before the 7 October 2023 attack.
- Netanyahu denies speaking to the Emirati leader at that time and called the report an 'absolute lie'.
- Israeli opposition leaders described the prime minister as 'unfit' for office.
- The claim emerged during a crucial election campaign.
Benjamin Netanyahu was personally alerted by the president of the United Arab Emirates that Hamas was planning a large-scale offensive against Israel more than a week before its 7 October 2023 attack, but did not act on the warning, according to a book by Haaretz reporters.
The claim comes amid a crucial election campaign in Israel, adding a politically charged dimension to the allegation as candidates compete for support.
Israeli opposition leaders seized on the reporting to describe the prime minister as ‘unfit’ for office, according to the Guardian.
Netanyahu strongly rejected the account, denouncing the report as an ‘absolute lie’. He also denied that he spoke to the Emirati leader at that time.
The 7 October 2023 attack marked a pivotal moment for Israel, and questions over whether advance warnings were received or ignored remain politically sensitive.
As reported by the Guardian, the allegation originates from a book authored by reporters for the Israeli newspaper Haaretz.
Why it matters
Whether Israeli leadership received and acted on advance warnings before the 7 October 2023 attack is a question with major political and security consequences. The claim surfacing during an election campaign could shape public debate over Netanyahu's leadership and accountability.
Frequently asked questions
Who allegedly warned Netanyahu about the Hamas attack?
According to the book by Haaretz reporters, the president of the United Arab Emirates personally alerted Netanyahu that Hamas was planning a large-scale offensive.
How has Netanyahu responded to the claim?
Netanyahu denounced the report as an 'absolute lie' and denied that he spoke to the Emirati leader at that time.
When was the alleged warning given?
The book claims the warning came more than a week before the 7 October 2023 attack on Israel.