Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that Hamas may try to attack in an attempt to influence Israel’s upcoming election. Speaking at a cabinet meeting, Netanyahu said Hamas could try to “challenge” Israel ahead of the vote and said the country was prepared to thwart any such attempt. The warning comes ahead of the anniversary of the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel and as Israeli security officials remain on alert for possible attacks. The issue has also triggered a political clash inside Israel. Opposition leader Yair Lapid has sharply criticised Netanyahu and his coalition partners, accusing the government of creating political chaos and attacking its handling of military service and public finances. Lapid said the current political situation would end in three weeks and vowed to form a government and dismantle what he described as an “anti-Zionist state” built by “draft-dodgers and extortionists.”