Netanyahu Office Denies Firing Adviser After Incident with Sara Netanyahu

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly denied recent media reports claiming that Yossi Bassad, an adviser in the Prime Minister's Office, was fired following an incident involving Sara Netanyahu at the 22nd Maccabiah Games opening ceremony. According to an official statement, Bassad resigned weeks ago for personal reasons unrelated to any event at the Maccabiah. The statement described Bassad as a valued and loyal adviser who has served the Prime Minister and his wife with dedication for many years.

The reports, which appeared last week including on ynet, alleged that Sara Netanyahu accused Bassad and others of stepping on her in the VIP area, leading to his dismissal and emotional distress. However, the Prime Minister's Office called these claims "an unprecedented factory of lies" and confirmed that Bassad plans to file a defamation lawsuit against those spreading false information.

This is not the first time the Netanyahu household has faced media scrutiny over alleged tensions with staff members, with previous accusations of inappropriate behavior by Sara Netanyahu being denied by the family. Additionally, the family is currently dealing with reports about personal changes, including Yair Netanyahu's official name change to "Yonatan Hon," which has drawn public attention.

The Prime Minister's Office emphasized its commitment to combating misinformation and maintaining the truth amid what it described as a "fake news industry." Bassad remains respected by the Netanyahus, who intend to keep a close relationship with him despite his departure from the official role.