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Netanyahu Claims 'Deep State' Exists in Israel During TV Interview
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared in a 35-minute interview with journalist Ayala Hasson on Kan 11 on Wednesday evening. The broadcast, which occurred during an election period, has drawn criticism for its lack of journalistic rigor and for resembling an election speech rather than a genuine interview. Netanyahu explained his increased media appearances by stating he was concerned about a political tie and wanted to mobilize right-wing voters.
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What happened
- 01Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that a "deep state" exists in Israel during a Kan 11 interview on Wednesday evening.
- 02The 35-minute interview with Ayala Hasson was criticized by Walla and Maariv as a soft, one-sided election speech.
- 03Netanyahu explained his recent media appearances as an effort to mobilize right-wing voters due to a perceived political tie.
- 04The Prime Minister dismissed a defamation lawsuit filed by Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, calling it timed lies.
- 05Critics noted that the interview failed to challenge Netanyahu on key issues, including his ongoing trial and the October 7 attacks.
- 06Netanyahu's first request upon entering the Kan 11 studio was for a footstool.
- 07Commentators criticized interviewer Ayala Hasson for her silence when Netanyahu questioned her about the existence of a "deep state" in Israel.
During the interview, Netanyahu asserted that a "deep state" exists in Israel. When asked about reports of an Egyptian plane landing at an Israeli airport, Netanyahu remarked that in a "deep state," such issues are very difficult. When Hasson asked if he believed a "deep state" existed in Israel, Netanyahu turned the question back to her, and her subsequent silence was interpreted by some commentators as agreement and an enlistment in spreading conspiracy theories.
The interview was heavily criticized by Walla and Maariv for failing to challenge the Prime Minister on critical issues, including the October 7 attacks, his ongoing trial, and a defamation lawsuit filed against him by Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, which Netanyahu dismissed during the broadcast as timed lies. Critics argued that Netanyahu is avoiding critical media outlets in favor of softer platforms, and that Kan 11's presentation provided a veneer of legitimacy to a one-sided appearance.
Summarized by baba from the reports of 3 newsrooms. Updated
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