Netanyahu attacks watchdog after scathing review of security collapse

Hebrew media reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was deeply angered by the recent report issued by Matanyahu Englman, the state comptroller and public complaints commissioner.

Englman’s report highlighted deep structural and managerial failures within Israel’s cabinet regarding home front preparedness—failures that have persisted since the Second Lebanon War and culminated in the events of October 7.

The report stressed that over the past 17 years, under multiple Netanyahu-led cabinets, both security and civil recommendations for strengthening the home front were ignored. This was especially evident in the current cabinet, with its 33 ministers, overlapping responsibilities across five ministries, and the appointment of unqualified individuals to key positions—factors that weakened Israel’s internal foundations.

Although many analysts viewed the report as relatively “mild,” Netanyahu rejected its findings outright, claiming they “have nothing to do with reality.” Instead of accepting responsibility, he once again portrayed himself as a “victim,” blaming others for the failures.

Englman’s report not only underscored shortcomings on the home front but also shed light on the roots of Israel’s current political and security crisis.

The criticism came as Netanyahu even verbally attacked the families of October 7 captives. He compared protesters outside his residence to “fascist brigades,” despite being the one who entrusted Israel’s internal security to extremist figures.

Israeli experts and media argue that Netanyahu’s reaction to the report once again proves he lacks the ability and competence to lead and rebuild the regime after one of the gravest security and political failures in its history.