#Israel #Morocco #ZivAgmon #BenjaminNetanyahu #moroccan_origin_jewish
Israel: Netanyahu’s Chief of Staff Accused of Racist Remarks and Harsh Criticism of the Prime Minister
According to revelations from Channel Mako, Ziv Agmon, a lawyer and the highest-ranking official in the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, made extremely harsh statements during private conversations. These remarks, made public on the program Mehadora HaMerkazit, target Likud lawmakers, ultra-Orthodox parties, as well as the Prime Minister himself and his family.
Agmon, who is officially the Prime Minister’s spokesman and, in practice, his chief of staff, is described as Netanyahu’s closest and almost exclusive adviser, especially after the ousting or departure of several close associates. During the war, he serves as a buffer between the head of government and the rest of the world.
Racist and contemptuous remarks
In private conversations, Agmon targeted Likud lawmakers of Moroccan origin with racist insults: “We know where our Moroccans come from […] from Africa. Bavon is a baboon.” He specifically called lawmakers Nissim Vaturi and Eli Revivo a “baboon” and a “retarded Moroccan.” He also criticized the opening of Morocco to Israeli tourism, claiming it revealed the African origin of Moroccans.
He also attacked the Shas party: “Shas – they only know how to take money, that party.”
Attacks on Netanyahu and his family
After October 7, Agmon reportedly said: “Bibi is finished. The question is whether a country will remain. He must go home.” He wonders who will be in charge of hostage negotiations and adds: “A finished country.” He allegedly sent several contacts a WhatsApp sticker showing Netanyahu with blood smeared on his face.
Regarding the Prime Minister’s wife, Sara Netanyahu, he claims that “only flattery works” with her. He also accuses his son, Yair Netanyahu, of having forced former Foreign Minister Eli Cohen to issue him a diplomatic passport “without any justification.”
Criticism of Likud primaries and attempt to join Gantz
During the 2022 Likud primaries, Agmon failed to secure an electable spot. He reportedly said: “A classified ad should be published to recruit rapists and murderers for the Likud list.” Later, he allegedly tried to get a reserved spot on Benny Gantz’s party list, National Unity, stating: “I am much more suited to him than to monkeys.”
Response from Agmon
Speaking through the Prime Minister’s Office, Ziv Agmon reacted to the leaks: “I do not intend to react to all these slanderous words, but about one thing I cannot remain silent. Those who know me know that the words attributed to me regarding the Eastern communities do not come from me. A large part of my family originates from Morocco and other Eastern countries. A real injustice is being done to me.”
The investigation notes that it is unlikely Netanyahu was aware of the extent and radical nature of his closest aide’s remarks.