Benjamin Netanyahu

Benjamin Netanyahu: The Longest-Serving Israeli Prime Minister

Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, has been at the helm of the country since 2022, having previously held office from 1996 to 1999 and from 2009 to 2021. His journey is a complex tapestry of political maneuvering, economic reforms, and controversial decisions that have shaped Israel’s landscape.

Early Life and Rise to Power

Born into a secular Jewish family in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu’s path to power was anything but straightforward. His father, Benzion Netanyahu, was a renowned historian and editor of the Encyclopaedia Hebraica, while his grandfather Nathan Mileikowsky was a leading Zionist rabbi.

Netanyahu’s early years were marked by a mix of academic pursuits and military service. After graduating from MIT with a master’s degree in architecture, he joined the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) where he participated in special forces raids during the Yom Kippur War. His combat experience and strategic thinking laid the groundwork for his future political career.

Political Career Highlights

Netanyahu’s rise to power was not without its challenges. He first emerged as a prominent figure when he won the Likud party leadership in 1993, defeating Benny Begin and David Levy. His campaign slogan ‘making a safe peace’ emphasized progress based on Palestinian National Authority fulfilling its obligations.

As prime minister from 2009 to 2021, Netanyahu faced numerous controversies, including the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, judicial reforms, and military actions against Hamas-led groups. His handling of the Gaza conflict and his stance on Iran’s nuclear program have been central to his political legacy.

Controversies and Legal Battles

The years 2017 to 2024 saw Netanyahu embroiled in a series of legal battles. He was indicted for corruption, fraud, and breach of trust in two separate cases, ‘1000’ and ‘2000.’ Despite these challenges, he managed to reclaim his position as prime minister by forming a hard-right coalition that included reactionaries who endorse full annexation of the West Bank.

Netanyahu’s judicial reform law, which many feared would undermine democracy, further polarized public opinion. His critics argue that it aims to weaken the judiciary and consolidate power in his hands, while supporters see it as a necessary step to protect Israel’s democratic institutions from corruption.

Foreign Relations

Netanyahu’s foreign policy has been characterized by close ties with the United States, particularly under Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump. His relationship with Trump was especially strong, but it deteriorated after the 2020 U.S. presidential election.

Netanyahu’s stance on Iran remains a contentious issue. He has consistently called for a military strike against Iran’s nuclear facilities, viewing them as Israel’s greatest threat since its independence. His relationship with Russia and China has been complex, marked by both cooperation and tension over issues like the Gaza conflict.

Personal Life

Beyond his political career, Netanyahu’s personal life is equally intriguing. He has been married three times and has multiple extramarital affairs. His health issues include a pacemaker implanted in 2023 due to right bundle branch block, as well as a hernia and prostate removal.

Netanyahu’s writings on terrorism and his memoirs provide insights into his strategic thinking and political philosophy. His books ‘International Terrorism: Challenge and Response’ (1981) and ‘Terrorism: How the West Can Win’ (1987) reflect his belief in a hardline approach to security challenges.

Conclusion

The story of Benjamin Netanyahu is one of resilience, controversy, and political acumen. As he continues to navigate Israel’s complex political landscape, his legacy remains deeply intertwined with the nation’s future. Whether seen as a visionary leader or a controversial figure, Netanyahu’s impact on Israeli politics cannot be overstated.