Bennett and Journalist Ayelet Hasson Trade Barbs Over Home Renovation Costs

Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and journalist Ayelet Hasson are engaged in an escalating dispute over the cost of renovations to Bennett's private home in Ra'anana. During an interview on Channel 13's "Moriah and Barco" program, Bennett, when questioned about the renovations, vehemently denied any wrongdoing. He stated that the work was merely to adapt his home to the security standards required for a prime minister, referring to Hasson as "a very big liar."

Hasson responded by releasing a video compilation of Bennett's previous statements on the matter. One clip features Bennett telling interviewer Dina Weiss that the renovation and construction of a workspace for the prime minister cost NIS 160,000. Another clip shows him claiming the same renovation cost only NIS 70,000. Hasson criticized Bennett, calling him a liar who cannot recall his own statements. She pointed out that even a report Bennett cited indicated expenses of NIS 182,000, including furniture.

Hasson further alleged that Bennett concealed his decision to turn his private Ra'anana residence into an official prime ministerial compound, a move that incurred tens of millions of shekels in expenses for taxpayers. She also claimed the construction created a "fortress" around his home, disrupting his neighbors' lives until it was dismantled after his term.

Hasson clarified that she never claimed the renovations cost tens of millions, but rather detailed the expenses with documents. She mentioned specific items like faulty electrical outlets and an air conditioner compressor that needed replacement shortly after installation. Hasson concluded by stating that Bennett's home was effectively turned into an official state residence and that his housekeeper had used the term "renovation" in relation to the work done there.