Netanyahu Criticized for 'Empty Paper' Stunt and Perceived Betrayal of Haredi Parties

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing criticism for a recent appearance on Channel 14, where he held up a blank piece of paper for 47 minutes during a lengthy interview. The article argues that this stunt, intended to illustrate his claim that the left would concede to all demands of Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) parties for the sake of forming a government, was disingenuous and demonstrated ingratitude towards these parties.

Netanyahu's interview, characterized by fawning questions and enthusiastic applause, focused on his perceived achievements and attacks on the media. He asserted that Haredi parties would align with the left because "power above all else." The author counters that Netanyahu himself has historically betrayed the Haredi parties, citing instances in 2003 when he, as Finance Minister, cut child benefits, in 2013 when he formed a government excluding them, and in the last government where a promised draft law was not passed.

The article also discusses the right-wing political landscape, noting the rise of figures like Itamar Ben-Gvir and Ofir Genter, whose aggressive rhetoric appeals to a segment of the electorate. It contrasts Ben-Gvir's current confidence with his past pleas for unity and questions the electoral standing of Bezalel Smotrich, despite his significant contributions to West Bank settlement expansion.

Furthermore, the piece laments the prevalence of aggressive and violent rhetoric in political campaigns, exemplified by Ben-Gvir and Tali Gottlieb, arguing that this reflects a concerning trend in Israeli society where such language is increasingly embraced by younger voters. The author concludes that Netanyahu's "empty paper" demonstration was not only a lie but also an act of ingratitude towards the Haredi parties, who have historically shown loyalty to him despite his perceived betrayals.