Former Netanyahu Aide Sparks Controversy Over Mansour Abbas and October 7 Aftermath

A heated debate unfolded on 103FM radio between former Netanyahu aide Ben Caspit and journalist Yinon Magal regarding cooperation with Mansour Abbas, support for Benjamin Netanyahu, and the consequences of the October 7 attacks. Caspit criticized Abbas’s role in forming the government with opposition parties, calling it "unimaginable," while Magal warned that Abbas represents a "Trojan horse" undermining the state, citing increased Arab influence in regions like the Negev and Galilee.

Magal expressed concern that some have not learned from the October 7 attacks, emphasizing the threat posed by certain populations working against Israel. Caspit mocked Magal’s stance and defended Abbas, noting Abbas condemned the October 7 attacks and that they occurred after the Bennett-Lapid government, not during it. The two exchanged sharp personal criticisms, with Magal affirming his loyalty to Israel and Caspit accusing Magal of being driven by hatred.

The discussion also touched on Netanyahu’s political maneuvers, with Magal supporting Netanyahu for his ability to unite his camp despite controversies. Caspit defended opposition figure Yoav Horowitz, describing him as trying to save the country and revealing that some sensitive information Horowitz mentioned was first published by Caspit himself. Caspit also referenced the "Qatargate" scandal and intelligence leaks from Netanyahu’s last term, accusing Magal of ignoring facts and focusing on personal attacks.

The debate ended with Caspit harshly criticizing Netanyahu’s leadership during the October 7 attacks, stating that 1,200 Jews were killed in a single day under his watch and blaming Netanyahu’s talent for uniting his base but lack of responsibility for Israel’s international isolation. Magal was taken aback by Caspit’s mention of Netanyahu’s family, highlighting the intensity of the dispute.