Netanyahu vs The Generals: The Battle for Israel's Future

Netanyahu has been portrayed as Israel's Mr. Security, but the security community has questioned his approach to national security. This book explores the mutual distrust and intense disagreements between Netanyahu and the security community, as well as the underlying reasons behind the Israeli public's inattention to the collective judgment of hundreds of ex-generals and former spymasters.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 266 pages
Publication date: 18 January 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Benjamin Netanyahu has carefully cultivated a self-image as Israel's "Mr. Security" throughout his decades of political activity. His reputation as a security-minded leader has resonated with significant portions of the Israeli public, enabling him to become Israel's longest-serving prime minister. However, the Israeli security community has long questioned Netanyahu's approach to national security. The Netanyahu era has witnessed unprecedented civil-military tensions, with retired generals and former heads of the Mossad and Shin Bet intelligence agencies, some of whom were appointed by Netanyahu, publicly rejecting both his leadership and policies.

Drawing on extensive interviews with dozens of senior veterans of the Israeli security establishment, this book aims to unravel this intriguing paradox. It seeks to explain the mutual distrust and intense disagreements between Netanyahu and the security community, as well as the underlying reasons behind the Israeli public's disregard for the collective judgment of hundreds of ex-generals and former spymasters.

The book explores the historical background and political context that shaped Netanyahu's approach to security. It examines his early years in the military, his role in the 1982 Lebanon War, and his subsequent political career. The book also delves into Netanyahu's relationship with the security establishment, including his appointments of senior officials and his policies towards Israel's enemies.

One of the central themes of the book is the tension between Netanyahu's desire for political power and his commitment to national security. The author argues that Netanyahu has often prioritized his political interests over the security needs of Israel, particularly in his handling of the peace process with the Palestinians. The book also highlights Netanyahu's tendency to undermine the security establishment, including the Mossad and Shin Bet, by questioning their effectiveness and spreading rumors about their misconduct.

Another key aspect of the book is the Israeli public's perception of Netanyahu's security credentials. The author argues that Netanyahu has successfully marketed himself as a strong and decisive leader who can protect Israel from its enemies. However, the book suggests that the Israeli public has been largely unaware of the internal disagreements and tensions within the security community. The public has been more focused on Netanyahu's political messaging and his ability to deliver on his promises, rather than the collective judgment of hundreds of ex-generals and former spymasters.

The book also explores the role of the media in shaping public opinion on security issues. The author argues that the media has often been complicit in promoting Netanyahu's security narrative, while downplaying the concerns of the security community. The media has been more interested in generating headlines and selling newspapers than in providing accurate and balanced coverage of security-related issues.

In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive analysis of the paradoxical relationship between Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli security community. It sheds light on the mutual distrust, intense disagreements, and underlying reasons behind the Israeli public's disregard for the collective judgment of hundreds of ex-generals and former spymasters. The book is a valuable contribution to the understanding of Israeli politics and security, and it will be of interest to scholars, policymakers, and the general public alike.

Weight: 402g
Dimension: 228 x 153 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009425704