Now 14World22:04

PM Netanyahu Reunites With Friend Who Saved His Life During Suez Canal Battle

By תהילה צ'קול

Translated & summarized from Now 14 by baba

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Hebrew · 2 newsrooms covering

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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met Yigal Maimon, a friend who saved his life 50 years ago during fighting in the Suez Canal. Maimon recounted rescuing Netanyahu under heavy fire, with the Prime Minister recalling his near-death experience. Maimon expressed strong support for Netanyahu, calling him "King of Israel."

The story in 5 lines · by baba

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met Yigal Maimon, who saved his life 50 years ago in the Suez Canal.
Maimon rescued Netanyahu under heavy fire during their military service, an event Netanyahu recalled as near-fatal.
Maimon expressed strong support for Netanyahu, calling his political path "the king's way."
The reunion took place on the "HaPatriotim" television program.
The audience chanted "Bibi, King of Israel" at the end of Maimon's remarks.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had an emotional reunion on Sunday with Yigal Maimon, a friend from his military service who saved his life approximately 50 years ago. The unexpected meeting occurred at the "HaPatriotim" studio, where Maimon recounted the harrowing experience of rescuing Netanyahu from the Suez Canal under heavy fire during the Yom Kippur War.

Maimon described how, as they reached the middle of the Suez Canal, intense fire erupted. He explained that Netanyahu was in the water with a life vest, but he and other comrades managed to pull him out. Netanyahu himself recalled the terrifying moments, stating, "I know I am going to die, my lungs filled with water. I reached out my hand, and suddenly they grabbed me."

During the broadcast, Maimon expressed his strong support for Netanyahu, emphasizing their bond forged during their military service. He stated, "We are at a historic crossroads, right is the king's way, left is to the abyss." The audience in the studio responded by singing "Bibi, King of Israel."

HaPatriotim host Yinon Magal commented on the unusual gathering, noting the rarity of seeing three former IDF Chiefs of Staff supporting Netanyahu in one place.