Netanyahu Opens Up About Family Impact Amid Ongoing Israel-Iran Clashes
As violent exchanges between Israel and Iran stretch into their eighth consecutive day, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has shed light on the intimate costs of this turbulent period. Speaking outside the Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba, recently struck by an Iranian missile, Netanyahu revealed how the conflict is deeply affecting his own family.
Personal Losses Under Fire
Drawing parallels to Britain’s experience during World War II’s blitz, Netanyahu reflected on the toll the current conflict is taking. "We are going through a blitz," he remarked, referencing the historic bombings that claimed tens of thousands of civilian lives. Emphasizing shared hardships, he said, "Each of us bears a personal cost, and my family has not been exempt."
Confirming that his son Avner has had to postpone his wedding twice due to missile threats, Netanyahu highlighted the ripple effect on loved ones. “It is a personal cost for his fiancée as well, and I must say that my dear wife is a hero, and she bears a personal cost,” he added.
The Story Behind Avner Netanyahu’s Postponed Wedding
Originally slated for last November, Avner Netanyahu’s wedding was delayed owing to security concerns amid the escalating hostilities. Despite ongoing tensions and potential protests, it had been rescheduled for this Monday. Reports suggest that Netanyahu’s brief planned absence from official duties for the ceremony may have influenced Tehran’s strategy prior to Israel’s airstrike.
Public Response and Political Backlash
While Netanyahu aimed to express solidarity by sharing his family’s struggles, his comments sparked criticism. Anat Angrest, whose son remains held hostage in Gaza, pointedly noted on social media the prolonged suffering her family has endured, contrasting it with the Netanyahu family’s experience.
Similarly, Knesset member Gilad Kariv branded Netanyahu a “borderless narcissist” and challenged the depiction of his wife as a hero by praising frontline professionals instead. "The doctors who leave home for night shifts are the heroes. The teachers who keep our children together on Zoom and phone calls are the heroes," he asserted.
Current Conflict Update: Heavy Casualties and Diplomatic Moves
The conflict has inflicted severe casualties on both sides. Over 639 people, including 263 civilians, have lost their lives in Iran, with more than 1,300 reported injured by an Iranian human rights group. On the Israeli front, approximately 24 people have died and hundreds more are wounded. Iranian forces are estimated to have launched around 450 missiles and 1,000 drones, with most interceptions credited to Israeli defenses.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu expressed confidence in former US President Donald Trump’s role, stating he trusted Trump to “do what’s best for America” amid the swelling crisis. He acknowledged increased American support already underway.
In diplomatic developments, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi planned to head to Geneva for talks with the European Union’s lead diplomat and representatives from the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, aiming to explore avenues to ease tensions.
Meanwhile, the current US President indicated a decision on potential direct military involvement is forthcoming within two weeks, given prospects for renewed negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program.
