Lapid Accuses Netanyahu of 'Hysteria' Ahead of Elections, Warns of Iran Attack
Translated & summarized from Hamal by baba
Opposition leader Yair Lapid accused Prime Minister Netanyahu of "hysteria" ahead of elections, suggesting he might even attack Iran to win. Lapid stated current intelligence does not support an Iran strike but expressed distrust in the government's security handling. He also criticized the government's failure to address the rising cost of living and outlined opposition plans to combat monopolies and reduce expenses if elected. Lapid defended his own record and expressed optimism about his party's electoral prospects.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Opposition leader Yair Lapid accused Prime Minister Netanyahu of "hysteria" due to anticipated election losses.
- Lapid suggested Netanyahu might attack Iran to win elections, but believes the US would not assist.
- Lapid criticized the government's failure to address the rising cost of living.
- He outlined opposition plans to fight monopolies and reduce living costs by 30% in three years.
- Lapid defended his past performance and expressed optimism about his party's election chances.
Opposition leader Yair Lapid stated that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is "in a state of hysteria" because the Likud party knows it is heading for defeat in the upcoming elections. Lapid suggested that Netanyahu might even "try anything to win," including an attack on Iran, though he believes the United States would not support such an action before its own midterm elections. Lapid, chairman of Yesh Atid, asserted that based on current intelligence, there is no reason for an attack on Iran, but expressed distrust in the government's handling of security matters.
Lapid criticized the government's performance, stating it has failed despite the IDF's successes, pointing to the continued presence of Hamas and Hezbollah. He urged right-wing supporters to "wake up now" and help replace the government to achieve victory. Lapid expressed optimism about the election results, comparing the current political climate to 2013, and predicted that the "Bechirot" party would be a surprise.
Regarding the cost of living, Lapid claimed Netanyahu has lost control, citing the prime minister's repeated, unfulfilled promises on issues like free childcare, housing prices, and fuel costs. He also accused the government of transferring billions to the ultra-Orthodox community to fund their agenda, suggesting Netanyahu fears discussing the cost of living due to potential ridicule.
Lapid outlined the opposition's first major plan if they win: a genuine fight against monopolies to lower the cost of living, the immediate cessation of coalition funds and budgets for draft dodgers, and the cancellation of the dual kashrut certification system. He pledged to work towards a 30% reduction in the cost of living within three years, sharing a personal anecdote about his wife's observations on rising grocery prices.
He dismissed negative portrayals of him as the work of a "poison machine" and Channel 14, operating under Netanyahu's direction. Lapid defended his record as foreign minister, finance minister, and prime minister, highlighting his role in Operation "Alot Hashachar" against Islamic Jihad. He stated that while he may not have responded quickly enough to the attacks, those who worked with him know he is a serious leader, which he believes is what worries Netanyahu.
Lapid expressed interest in the role of foreign minister, citing the international crisis that has led 55% of Americans to call for an end to foreign aid to Israel. He emphasized the need to restore foreign relations, which he described as an existential issue, noting the current complete disconnect between the government and the US and European Union, a situation he believes he can manage.
Mentioned
