An ‘overwhelming one-man theatre performance’ by Netanyahu

Published: 23 August 2016

Last updated: 4 March 2024

PM Netanyahu has been giving closed briefings to sections of the Israeli media, apparently sensing a need to strengthen his position as a variety of legal and political threats loom. One of his requested meetings was with Haaretz editorial board members. The four hour meeting was behind closed doors but has nonetheless resulted in at least five articles!

An overwhelming one-man theatre performance by Benjamin Netanyahu – Gideon Levy – Haaretz 18.08.16
During a four-hour closed door meeting with members of the Haaretz editorial staff, Netanyahu lectured, preached and demanded. At one point someone saw tears in his eyes.

No, Gideon Levy, we won’t miss Netanyahu – Carolina Lansmann – Haaretz 20.08.16
Once and for all we must get rid of the notion that there’s no alternative to Israel's sitting prime minister. Saying there’s no alternative to him is the same as supporting him.

Netanyahu didn't ruin Israeli democracy. The occupation did – Gideon Levy – Haaretz 21.08.16
‘Everything bad began with Benjamin Netanyahu’s governance and will end when it ends’ – a typical delusion that absolves one of responsibility.

How Netanyahu smooth-talked Haaretz staff – Uzi Baram – Haaretz 22.08.16
The achievements for which Netanyahu is proud are hanging by a threat. 'The honeymoon with moderate Arab countries is dependent upon real progress with the Palestinians, and Netanyahu won’t be able to move forward.' [Uzi Baram is a former Israeli Minister of Tourism and Minister of Internal Affairs]

Who needs morality when you have force - lots of force - Odeh Bisharat – Haaretz 22.08.16
I turned to look around during the screening in the prime minister's residence, thinking that perhaps I’d mistakenly wandered into a meeting of Kahane Chai.