Lapid Criticized for Celebrating Loss of Israel's Allies

Opposition Leader Yair Lapid is facing criticism for celebrating the electoral defeats of leaders in Brazil and Serbia, who are considered friends of Israel, due to their perceived closeness to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The article argues that Lapid's focus on Netanyahu's political rivals overshadows the potential damage to Israel's international standing and relationships.

In Brazil, Lapid reportedly celebrated the loss of Flavio Bolsonaro, an avowed supporter of Israel who had pledged to move the Brazilian embassy to Jerusalem. Bolsonaro lost to incumbent President Lula da Silva, whom the article describes as having previously compared Israeli actions in Gaza to Hitler's atrocities and pursued an anti-Israel foreign policy. Lapid's celebration, according to the piece, stems from Bolsonaro's association with Netanyahu, rather than any benefit to Israel from da Silva's victory.

Similarly, in Serbia, Lapid is said to have viewed the potential loss of Aleksandar Vučić, a friend of Israel who fostered security and political cooperation, as a political win because Vučić is associated with Netanyahu. The article notes that while Vučić's successors may not necessarily be hostile, this represents a potential loss of a significant European ally, and that antisemitic rhetoric was heard during protests against Vučić.

The author questions whether Lapid's animosity towards Netanyahu has surpassed his concern for Israel's national interests, suggesting that a leader aspiring to head the country should prioritize foreign relations independently of personal rivalries. The piece concludes by contrasting Lapid's approach with the needs of a government that can distinguish between legitimate political struggle and the national interest, especially as Israeli citizens prepare to vote in upcoming elections.