Netanyahu Family in Hysteria Ahead of Elections, Claims Former Associate

With only six days remaining until the Knesset elections, businessman and Channel 13 panelist Roni Mana, a former close associate of the Netanyahu family, has intensified his sharp criticism against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his wife Sara, and their son Yair. On Wednesday, Mana posted on X, formerly Twitter, what he described as "exclusive information" about the Prime Minister's inner circle leading up to the vote. Mana claimed the Netanyahu family is in a state of "hysteria," with the Prime Minister "angry and sullen" as he perceives a lack of progress in the polls. He alleged that Sara and Yair Netanyahu are actively contacting Likud activists to rally support, with Yair posting messages to disappointed primary voters to set aside differences, though Mana stated this is proving ineffective. Mana also commented on Netanyahu's recent interview with radio host Alik, suggesting it was an attempt to reach new audiences. He claimed Alik received the questions from Netanyahu and that only eight minutes of the 20-minute interview were aired due to election propaganda restrictions, with the remaining portion focusing on personal topics like musical preferences and cooking skills. These claims about the interview's preparation and editing have not been independently verified. Mana added that Netanyahu "came out very badly" from the interview, while Alik gained ratings. Mana also addressed the possibility of Netanyahu appearing on major television channels, stating he had "first reported that Bibi wants to be interviewed on Channel 12 and Channel 13," but faced opposition from Yair and leaders of Channel 14, calling it "spitting in the face." Furthermore, Mana expressed a grave concern about potential security developments before the elections, stating, "I really hope Netanyahu does not go to war before the elections because that is the only thing that will save him, because he knows he is heading for a defeat." This statement reflects Mana's expressed fear, not established information about an intention to start a war. Mana had previously reported tensions within the Prime Minister's circle and Netanyahu's consideration of interviews on Channels 12 and 13, citing sources who said the Prime Minister was worried about losing the election. Meanwhile, Netanyahu continues his interview circuit, having recently spoken with Sharon Gal on i24NEWS about threats from Iran, the right-wing bloc's status, and voter turnout, admitting concern and urging the public to vote.