New Delhi: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has drawn fierce criticism after declaring the postponement of his son Avner’s wedding. He cited it as a “personal cost” of Israel’s ongoing war with Iran.
Speaking solemnly in front of Soroka Hospital, struck by an Iranian missile the day before, Netanyahu likened Israel’s experience to Britain’s Blitz in World War II.
“It really reminds me of the British people during the Blitz. We are going through a blitz,” he said, emphasizing that the wedding that has been delayed twice due to missile threats. He stressed out on the fact that it was emblematic of shared national sacrifice. He hailed his wife Sara as “a hero,” praising her sacrifices.
Netanyahu faces backlash; public outrage intensifies
However, Netanyahu’s analogy quickly faced a backlash. Critics have accused him of being out of touch and self centered during a conflict that has been marked by civilian suffering. Public outrage grew after reports suggested that Netanyahu was planning to take time off for his son’s wedding which was set on Monday despite ongoing hostilities and threats of anti-government protests, according to NDTV.
The wedding was originally planned for November but was cancelled amid the security concerns.
Questions of empathy raised
Gilad Kariv, a Knesset member, said that the prime minister was a “borderless narcissist” whose family inconveniences paled next to the loss of life suffered by others.
Journalist Amir Tibon added, “But there are no surprises with Netanyahu. Even in moments when a personal example is most needed, he is first and foremost concerned with himself. ”
Families impacted by war weighed in. Anat Angrest, whose son has been held hostage in Gaza for over 600 days, wrote on “X” (formerly Twitter), “I’ve been in the hellish dungeons of Gaza for 622 days now.”
The Israeli government reports 24 civilian fatalities in the conflict while human-rights groups estimate Iranian deaths at over 260.
