MK Talia Lankri Questions Gofman Iran Trip and Defends Coalition Policy
MK Talia Lankri criticized the security coordination behind Mossad Director Roman Gofman's Washington trip on Iran, while defending her party's recalculated coalition approach.
MK Talia Lankri (Yisrael Beytenu), former Deputy Head of the National Security Council, has raised sharp questions regarding Mossad Director Roman Gofman’s recent diplomatic mission to Washington over a potential strike on Iran, criticizing the exclusion of military leadership. Speaking during a radio broadcast, Lankri also addressed domestic political developments and her party's recalculated stance on coalition options.
Concerns Over Iran Strike Consultations and Gofman's Mission
While expressing deep personal confidence in Gofman's professional capabilities, Lankri questioned the diplomatic framework of his trip to the United States. She asked why the Mossad chief traveled alone without diplomatic or military representation, noting that the IDF Chief of Staff has spent at least two years managing military preparedness regarding Iran. Lankri further criticized the exclusion of MK Gadi Eisenkot from critical operational updates, arguing that major strategic decisions require broader institutional coordination.
Addressing potential political motivations behind the timing of security escalation, Lankri noted that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces immense political pressure as Eisenkot leads efforts to form a new government. Lankri stated that Netanyahu is focused on retaining his position, firmly dismissing any prospect of joining a broad emergency government under his leadership.
Recalculating Coalition Strategies and Haredi Parties
Turning to criticism regarding Yisrael Beytenu's willingness to engage with ultra-Orthodox parties despite campaign promises on the enlistment burden, Lankri explained that election results forced a tactical realignment. She noted that public support for mandatory service did not yield a 61-seat right-wing bloc, requiring a reevaluation of national priorities. She emphasized that party leader Avigdor Lieberman prioritized the broader national interest, lifting the blanket veto on Haredi factions to advance legislation that must ultimately satisfy the High Court of Justice, the IDF, and the public sector.
