Lapid Reveals Netanyahu Called to Apologize After Last-Minute Meeting Cancellation

A planned security briefing meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Opposition Leader Yair Lapid was abruptly canceled last week amid escalating tensions on the Iranian and Syrian fronts. Lapid revealed in a late-night interview on August 22 that Netanyahu personally called him to apologize for the last-minute cancellation, explaining it was due to scheduling issues. Lapid described the confusion around the meeting location and Netanyahu’s absence, saying, "I waited until I realized it wasn’t going to happen, then I left. Later, he called and apologized, and we rescheduled for the following week."

Lapid emphasized that despite political differences, meetings between the two are conducted with civility and professionalism, especially given the presence of military officials. He dismissed any notion of personal animosity interfering with national security discussions, stating, "We put aside personal issues because this is about Israel’s security."

Regarding Israel’s recent airstrike in northern Syria, Lapid supported the operation, calling it "a justified action" necessary to establish clear boundaries amid rising regional tensions, including with Turkey. He rejected claims that the strike was politically motivated ahead of Israel’s elections, labeling such narratives as harmful misinformation that damages Israel’s international standing. Lapid stressed that all messages were clearly communicated to Turkey to avoid misunderstandings and downplayed fears of a broader conflict, saying, "We did the right thing, and the subsequent storytelling is unnecessary and politically driven."