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WallaPolitics

Avi Dichter Faces Backlash as Former Security Chief Aligns with Netanyahu Family

Translated & summarized from Walla by baba

Center

Hebrew · 4 newsrooms covering

Avi Dichter, former Shin Bet chief and Israeli security minister, faces public backlash for aligning with the Netanyahu family and compromising his moral standing. Once a promising political figure, Dichter's loyalty to Netanyahu is seen as a bid to eventually become prime minister, damaging his reputation. Despite criticism, he may remain on the Likud list to provide security expertise.

The story in 6 lines · by baba

  • Avi Dichter, former Shin Bet head, is criticized for supporting the Netanyahu family politically.
  • He served in Kadima and as Minister of Public Security before joining Likud.
  • Dichter is accused of sacrificing his moral values to back Netanyahu's multiple terms.
  • His loyalty is believed to be motivated by hopes to succeed Netanyahu as prime minister.
  • Public protests at a memorial blamed him for children's deaths, reflecting deep resentment.
  • Despite damaged reputation, Netanyahu might keep Dichter on the party list for security expertise.
Avi Dichter Faces Backlash as Former Security Chief Aligns with Netanyahu Family
Editorial illustration generated by baba News, not a photograph of the event.

Avi Dichter, once a highly regarded head of the Shin Bet and a rising star in Israeli politics, is now facing criticism for his political alignment with the Netanyahu family. Dichter, known for his decades-long fight against terrorism and his charismatic presence, initially joined the Kadima party under Ariel Sharon and later served as Minister of Public Security in Ehud Olmert's government. Eventually, he moved to the Likud party, where his reputation took a hit.

At a recent memorial ceremony in Kiryat Shaul, Dichter was met with harsh accusations, including cries blaming him for the deaths of children. Critics argue that Dichter has compromised his moral backbone and values, effectively becoming a political tool for the Netanyahu family throughout their multiple terms in office. While many Likud members have similarly aligned themselves, Dichter's transformation is seen as particularly striking given his previous record of courage and dedication to national security.

Observers suggest that Dichter's loyalty stems from his hope to succeed Netanyahu as prime minister, mirroring Ariel Sharon's strategy after Netanyahu's 1999 electoral defeat. This political gamble, however, has damaged his reputation, which now seems to be fading. Despite this, some speculate that Netanyahu might still secure Dichter a spot on the party list to maintain at least one experienced security expert within the ranks, even if Dichter's current focus appears more on protecting the Netanyahu family's interests than the state's security.

The situation highlights the complex interplay between personal ambition, political loyalty, and public perception within Israeli politics, especially among former security officials turned politicians.

WallaCentre · Tel Aviv

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