Some see it as an embarrassing blunder, while others view it as a carefully orchestrated political effort. Either way, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a series of undiplomatic comments during a closed-door meeting, the entirely of which was heard by reporters outside because Netanyahu left his microphone on.
In the course of his comments, Netanyahu confirmed “dozens” of Israeli military attacks against “Iranian-backed groups” inside Syria, a major shift from Israel’s long-standing stance of refusing to comment on virtually all reports they attacked Syria.
He also angrily attacked the European Union, calling the organization “insane”and accusing them of actively working to undermine Israel, and warning “Europe is undermining its own security by undermining Israel.” He also called former US President Obama “a big problem.”
While this risks further discrediting Israeli claims of “neutrality” on Syria, and harming Israel-EU ties in the near term, some are suggesting that Netanyahu deliberately made the comments to a live mic, believing the statements would further ingratiate him to President Trump.
The assumption is that Trump is so ideologically opposed to Europe and to the Obama Administration, that any “closed door” attack on them would please him, and further reinforce the notion that Netanyahu is on “his side” both publicly and behind the scenes.
What a comedian.
Comedians go for laughs – not “handslap-to-the-forehead” moments which this clown excels at.
A scary comedian, like a creepy clown.
Warning the EU that undermining Israeli security undermines their own is a credible threat. Israel plays hardball with dissent.
Perhaps Israel should have helped Assad against all the foreign terrorist forces that came from all over the world to destroy Syria . Israel might have been able to get Syria for a friend . If they would have helped him in his time of need . Now Israel is worse off with Iran and Russia more involved in Syria . I don’t think the American people will put up The USA leaving a Army in Syria after ISIS is gone .