Netanyahu's Circle Embraces Conspiracy Theories Post-October 7

Sarah Netanyahu's questioning of how Yair Golan was 'dressed and ready' on the morning of October 7 has fueled conspiracy theories, suggesting he had prior knowledge of the Hamas attack. The article posits that such theories arise from a psychological need to process the incomprehensible scale of the disaster, drawing parallels to historical events like the JFK assassination and 9/11. In Israel, the Rabin assassination is cited as a similar instance where conspiracy theories emerged.

The author argues that the widespread belief that "the Arabs tricked us" was fostered by a political consensus, including by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, that Hamas was not an existential threat. This perception, amplified by media coverage emphasizing the IDF's readiness, contributed to a false sense of security, making the subsequent failure even more shocking.

Conspiracy theories, the article contends, serve to deflect responsibility from Benjamin Netanyahu. While a normal response to such a catastrophic failure would be widespread resignations, the narrative of internal betrayal or conspiracy implicitly lessens the Prime Minister's accountability. This narrative, including the insinuation against Yair Golan, has been actively adopted by Netanyahu's supporters.

The piece draws a historical parallel to the assassination of Haim Arlosoroff in 1933, where initial accusations against the Revisionists were amplified by the left-wing establishment. Similarly, the article suggests, the Netanyahu camp has embraced conspiracy theories, with Sarah Netanyahu's public 'questioning' and other allies making more direct insinuations, thereby shifting blame away from the Prime Minister.

The author concludes that while Sarah Netanyahu may not have originated the conspiracy theories, her actions and those of others in the Prime Minister's circle have amplified them for political gain. The article asserts that Yair Golan, despite any disagreements with his views, acted heroically on October 7, saving lives, a fact presented as a counterpoint to the baseless theories.