Racist Remarks in Israeli Politics: From 'Monkeys' to 'Amulet Kissers'

A political storm erupted in Israel following remarks made by Channel 14 presenter Yinon Magal, who referred to Yisrael Beiteinu chairman and former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot as a "monkey" and claimed he was controlled by elitist Ashkenazi elements. The comments, made on the program "HaPatriotim" shortly before elections, drew sharp condemnation. Eisenkot responded by stating he had nothing to say to "this low level," and suggested the problem lay with the person behind Magal. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also denounced Magal's statement as "very inappropriate" but simultaneously demanded Eisenkot condemn remarks where Likud voters were called "monkeys, baboons, and chimpanzees," characterizing such language as a daily phenomenon of condescension towards his supporters.

Magal, however, rejected the accusations, clarifying he meant to describe Eisenkot as a figurehead manipulated from behind the scenes, not to comment on his appearance. He attributed the ensuing controversy to a politically motivated "artificial storm" aimed at damaging him before the elections. The article notes that this incident is not isolated, recalling historical instances where public figures' statements have become major points of contention, sometimes symbolizing inter-camp struggles and even influencing election outcomes.

One such instance was in March 2015, when artist Yair Garbuz, speaking at a rally, referred to "amulet kissers" and "idol worshippers" in a critique of religious and nationalist extremism. His remarks were interpreted by critics as condescending towards traditional and Mizrahi (Eastern) communities, with the Likud using them to portray the left as disdainful of right-wing voters. Garbuz maintained his comments targeted political phenomena, not ethnic groups. This controversy became a symbol of the 2015 election campaign, which saw Netanyahu's Likud win significantly, though Garbuz's speech alone is not credited with determining the result.

Another prominent case occurred in June 1981, when entertainer Dudu Topaz, addressing a rally, called Likud supporters "Tschachchachim" (a derogatory term often associated with Mizrahi Jews) and questioned their military service. This sparked outrage, and then-Prime Minister Menachem Begin responded with a powerful speech at a Likud rally, emphasizing the unity and heroism of all Jewish communities. The Likud won that election by a single mandate, with Topaz's remarks and Begin's response often cited as having a significant impact, alongside other political, social, and economic factors.

In the same 2015 election, Netanyahu himself released a video warning that "Arab voters are streaming in in huge numbers," which drew widespread criticism for allegedly discouraging Arab citizens' democratic participation. His supporters framed it as a political tactic concerning voter turnout. Netanyahu later expressed regret for the offense caused. The article concludes by observing that while a single statement can quickly dominate an election campaign, its ultimate impact depends on the circumstances and public reaction, leaving it uncertain whether the "monkey" controversy will be a fleeting dispute or a defining element of the current campaign.