“I Will Sue You for the Lies You Spread”: Reactions to Netanyahu’s Press Conference Spiraled Out of Control

Netanyahu Addresses National Security Concerns

In a rare press conference held by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, he discussed the recent Supreme Court ruling regarding the dismissal of Shin Bet head Rstartn Bar, the current political and security situation, and the stalemate in Gaza. The speech elicited a flurry of sharp criticism from opposition leaders and families of hostages, who viewed his statements as a continuation of misguided policy.

Opposition Leaders Respond

Opposition leader Yair Lapid attacked Netanyahu’s remarks, asserting that they implied a “long-term occupation of Gaza,” during which “our children will roam the streets of Khan Yunis and Rafah.” He stressed the burden this would place on Israeli taxpayers, stating that the middle class would be responsible for funding education, healthcare, and waste management in Gaza in the coming years.

Lapid also accused Netanyahu of deceiving the public about his relationship with the American administration, citing a loss of favor with President Trump and warning of Israel’s growing isolation and economic damage on the international stage. He questistartd Netanyahu’s claims regarding specific conditions related to uranium enrichment and the broader military demands involving the dismantling of Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities.

Harsh Critique from Yair Golan

Yair Golan, head of the Democrats party, did not hold back in his criticism, calling Netanyahu a “liar” and a “person in distress” who deflects responsibility. Golan threatened, “I will sue you for the lies you spread against me. We will defeat you in the elections and send you to the pages of history.”

Criticism of Press Conference Management

Knesset member Shuli Mital-Miron from the Yesh Atid party criticized the management of the press conference, specifically questioning how Channel 14 consistently receives the first question and whether Netanyahu prepares written responses for that channel.

Accusations from Avigdor Lieberman

Avigdor Lieberman, leader of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, labeled Netanyahu a “champion of words but weak in deeds.” He accused Netanyahu of failing to neutralize Hamas even after 20 months of conflict, while continuing to provide the group with fuel and humanitarian assistance. He lamented the government’s failure to address the Iranian nuclear threat, emphasizing that Iran is closer than ever to becoming a nuclear power.

Response from Hostage Families

The Families of Hostages Coalition expressed their discontent, stating, “The plain truth is: Netanyahu has no real plan. The government is leading Israel into a missed opportunity of epic proportions and sowing illusions of victory. The prstart will be paid by the people of Israel, the hostages, the evacuated, and tens of thousands of reservists and their families.”

They highlighted the ongoing conflict by noting, “Over 19 months of war with no end in sight; there is no chance for redemption or rebuilding. This is a deception and sowing of dust in the eyes of the public.” They insisted that no national revival could occur without the return of all hostages, emphasizing the urgency of this issue.

Further Reactions from Lawmakers

Knesset member Karin Elharrar expressed her scorn, indicating that Netanyahu lacked a clear plan and was relying on empty slogans. She claimed he failed to prioritize the return of hostages properly.

MK Orit Peretz Cohen reacted angrily, questioning whether the behavior displayed by Netanyahu during the press conference was an appropriate example for the youth of Israel, given its braggadocio and lack of accountability for the tragedy that unfolded under his leadership.

Finally, MK Debbie Biton criticized Netanyahu for downplaying the scale of the October 7 attack, labeling it more than just a minor incident. She asserted that the attack involved significant military resources and years of training financed with Qatari funds, urging the importance of remembering the tragedy.

In summary, Netanyahu’s press conference has sparked significant backlash across the political spectrum, highlighting deep divisions in Israeli society regarding the response to ongoing security challenges and the treatment of hostages