Businessman Offered Netanyahu $125 Million to Leave Politics

A prominent businessman reportedly offered Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu $125 million in exchange for his permanent departure from Israeli politics. The offer, conveyed through an associate, stipulated that Netanyahu would receive $12.5 million annually for ten years from a private investment fund, provided he permanently exited the political arena. The associate allegedly responded to the offer by questioning if money was Netanyahu's primary interest, a reaction that amused the businessman. The offer was reportedly never directly presented to Netanyahu, with the businessman's associate failing to relay it. The author, Ben Caspit writing for Maariv, humorously suggested the offer should have been made to Sara Netanyahu, citing her recent disputes over minor expenses with government offices.

Caspit argues that Netanyahu has become a "toxic and radioactive political brand," significantly damaging Israel's international image, particularly in the United States. He believes the erosion of the crucial alliance with the U.S. warrants investigation and warns of potential sanctions from both Europe and America. Caspit criticizes former government advisor Ron Dermer's optimistic predictions about the war's end and future peace agreements, noting Dermer's absence from the government and questioning his whereabouts.

The article also touches upon the shifting U.S. political landscape, suggesting that former President Donald Trump is re-evaluating his stance on Israel. Caspit points to a publication by U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, which blamed Israel for America's problems, and was amplified by Donald Trump Jr. and commentator Meghan Kelly, with Trump himself acknowledging some truth in Vance's claims. Caspit concludes that Netanyahu has severely damaged Israel's international standing, making the country an international pariah and himself a toxic figure. He highlights the loss of support from American Jews as a particularly serious blow.

Caspit further speculates that a financial package to ensure Netanyahu's exit from politics, potentially exceeding the initial $125 million offer, could be raised. Some proposals even include providing Sara Netanyahu with the official government plane, "Wings of Zion," a state-funded fuel card, and three pilots, all to facilitate the family's departure and allow Israel to move forward. Caspit asserts that such a financial settlement would ultimately be far less costly for Israel than the continued tenure of the Netanyahu family in power.