Veteran Journalist Says Netanyahu Still Traumatized by 1999 Debate
Translated & summarized from Cursorinfo by baba
Veteran journalist Nissim Mishal suggested Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is hesitant to participate in televised debates due to a negative experience in 1999. Mishal, who hosted the debate between Netanyahu and the rival that year, said Netanyahu remains "traumatized" by the event. This comes after Gadi Eisenkot invited Netanyahu to a debate, an offer widely expected to be declined.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Veteran journalist Nissim Mishal believes Prime Minister Netanyahu is still traumatized by a 1999 debate.
- Mishal hosted the 1999 debate between Netanyahu and the rival.
- Netanyahu reportedly expected a quick win but was surprised by the rival's attack.
- Following the 1999 debate, Netanyahu vowed "This will not happen to me again."
- Gadi Eisenkot invited Netanyahu to a televised debate, which is unlikely to occur.
Veteran Israeli journalist Nissim Mishal believes Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is unlikely to agree to televised debates before the upcoming elections due to a traumatic experience from the 1999 election cycle. Mishal, who moderated the legendary 1999 debate between Netanyahu and the rival, stated in a radio interview that the memory of that event continues to influence the Prime Minister's behavior. "Netanyahu is still traumatized by that debate and will not return to something similar," Mishal said, explaining that Netanyahu entered the 1999 debate expecting a quick victory but was instead surprised by the rival's prepared counterattack. Mishal recalled the dramatic studio atmosphere and his own shock at the rival's performance. According to Mishal, the outcome of that debate led Netanyahu to vow, "This will not happen to me again," after which he left the studio. The comments come after Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the Yashar! party, officially invited Netanyahu to participate in direct televised debates, an offer that political circles consider highly unlikely to be accepted.
The same event, reported separately by each outlet. Open a few to compare what different newsrooms emphasize — and what they leave out.
Right 1Other 1
Not the same event — other stories that share this one’s people, places, or theme: background, reactions, and follow-ups.
