Netanyahu Denies Family Rift, Confirms Contact with Daughter and Grandchildren

In a rare and candid interview on the podcast "Hakol Patuach," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed ongoing rumors about a family estrangement with his eldest daughter, Noa Rotman, from his first marriage, and his relationship with his grandchildren. Netanyahu firmly denied claims of a rift, stating that he maintains regular contact with Noa and that they meet during family events and holidays, though meetings sometimes depend on security conditions. He revealed their last conversation was "a few weeks ago."

Netanyahu also confirmed that his grandchildren know him and that he sees them occasionally. He sharply criticized media reports portraying a complete family breakdown, calling them a "manufacturing of lies" and lamented the daily barrage of falsehoods against him.

The interview touched on Noa's religious return and her residence in a Haredi community. Netanyahu said he was aware of her spiritual journey beforehand and supported her choice, acknowledging it clearly benefits her. When asked why he rarely speaks publicly about Noa, Netanyahu explained it was her personal decision to avoid public exposure, not a distancing on his part. He highlighted the difficulties of public scrutiny on family members, including media harassment and legal threats, which compel him to protect them as best as he can.