Nir Hefetz, a former adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has claimed that Netanyahu is in a state of "terror" over the prospect of Yashar Party leader Gadi Eisenkot assuming the premiership. Hefetz shared this assessment in an interview with the Israeli radio station 103FM.

Fear Dominates Decision-Making

"Fear has become the primary factor in Netanyahu's decision-making. The moment I close my eyes, I can feel that atmosphere of terror," Hefetz said. According to him, this pervasive anxiety is now shaping Netanyahu's political and strategic calculations.

Profile of the Former Adviser

Hefetz served as the chief spokesman for Netanyahu's government from 2009 to 2010. Subsequently, from 2014 to 2017, he worked directly as a personal adviser and public relations strategist for Netanyahu and his family. Until his arrest in early 2018 in connection with a corruption case, Hefetz was considered a highly trusted figure within the Netanyahu household.

Tensions at Knesset Swearing-In Ceremony

Meanwhile, tensions flared during the swearing-in ceremony of Israel's new parliament, the Knesset, on Tuesday. Far-right leader Itamar Ben-Gvir directed derogatory remarks at parties representing the country's Arab citizens. The event also saw aggressive exchanges regarding the possibility of forming a government with the support of Arab parties.

Unprecedented Seat Count for Arab Parties

In the recent election, two Arab parties—the Joint List and Ra'am—together secured 19 seats, a result described as unprecedented in Israel's history. This outcome has introduced a new dynamic into the country's political landscape and complicated the equations for government formation.