History of Benjamin Netanyahu in Timeline
Benjamin "Bibi" Netanyahu is an Israeli politician who has served as the prime minister of Israel since 2022. He previously held the position from 1996-1999 and 2009-2021. Netanyahu is the longest-serving prime minister in Israel's history, with a total tenure of over 16 years. He is a member of the Likud party and currently serves as its chair.
1910: Birth of Benzion Netanyahu
Netanyahu's father, Benzion Netanyahu, was born in 1910 in Warsaw.
1912: Birth of Netanyahu's Mother
Netanyahu's mother, Tzila (Cela), was born in 1912 in Petah Tikva, Ottoman Palestine, which is now Israel.
1912: Birth of Tzila Segal
Netanyahu's mother, Tzila Segal, was born in 1912 in Petah Tikva.
1938: Netanyahu's Historical Analogy
Netanyahu drew a historical analogy, stating that the situation with Iran in the contemporary era mirrors that of Germany in 1938, highlighting the urgent threat of Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons.
1948: First Arab-Israeli War
In 1948, the first Arab-Israeli War took place, marking a pivotal moment in the history of the region and shaping future conflicts.
1948: Significance of Netanyahu's Birthplace
Netanyahu stands out as the first Israeli Prime Minister born within the State of Israel after its establishment in 1948. This fact distinguishes him from previous Prime Ministers like Yitzhak Rabin, who was born in Jerusalem during the British Mandate of Palestine.
October 1949: Birth of Benjamin Netanyahu
Benjamin "Bibi" Netanyahu was born in October 1949.
1949: Birth of Benjamin Netanyahu
Benjamin Netanyahu was born in 1949 in Tel Aviv.
1967: Military Service and Return to Israel
In 1967, Netanyahu returned to Israel to enlist in the Israel Defense Forces, serving for five years in the Sayeret Matkal special forces unit.
1967: Enlistment in the Israel Defense Forces
Netanyahu enlisted in the Israel Defense Forces in 1967.
1967: Netanyahu's "Three No's" Policy
Referencing the 1967 Khartoum conference, Netanyahu emphasized his "three no's" policy, rejecting withdrawal from the Golan Heights, discussions about Jerusalem, and negotiations with preconditions. This policy reflected Netanyahu's stance on key issues within the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
1967: African Hebrew Israelites Exodus to Israel
The African Hebrew Israelites of Jerusalem, a community whose "exodus" from America to Israel occurred in 1967, received support from Netanyahu for their integration into Israeli society.
1967: Six-Day War
The Six-Day War of 1967 constituted a pivotal event in the Arab-Israeli conflict, significantly impacting the geopolitical landscape and regional dynamics.
March 1968: Battle of Karameh
In March 1968, Netanyahu participated in the Battle of Karameh, a major clash between the IDF and Jordanian forces.
May 1972: Rescue of Sabena Flight 571
Netanyahu played a role in the daring rescue of Sabena Flight 571 in May 1972, during which he was shot in the shoulder.
1972: Netanyahu and Miriam Weizmann Move to US for Studies
In 1972, both Netanyahu and his first wife Miriam Weizmann moved to the United States to pursue their studies. Netanyahu enrolled at MIT, while Weizmann enrolled at Brandeis University.
1972: Beginning Studies at MIT
Netanyahu began his studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in late 1972, initially focusing on architecture.
October 1973: Yom Kippur War Service
During the Yom Kippur War in October 1973, Netanyahu interrupted his studies in the US to return to Israel and serve in the military. He participated in special forces operations against Egyptian and Syrian forces.
February 1975: Bachelor's Degree in Architecture from MIT
Netanyahu received his bachelor's degree in architecture from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in February 1975.
June 1976: Master's Degree from MIT Sloan School of Management
In June 1976, Netanyahu earned a master's degree from the MIT Sloan School of Management.
1976: Graduation from MIT Sloan School of Management
In 1976, Netanyahu graduated near the top of his class at the MIT Sloan School of Management.
1976: Netanyahu's Career at Boston Consulting Group
In 1976, Netanyahu started working as an economic consultant for the Boston Consulting Group in Massachusetts. He worked there until 1978, forming a lasting friendship with his colleague Mitt Romney.
1976: Death of Netanyahu's Brother Yonatan
In 1976, Netanyahu's older brother, Yonatan, was killed during Operation Entebbe in Uganda.
1976: Netanyahu's Developing Economic Views
In 1976, while working as an economic consultant for the Boston Consulting Group, Netanyahu's economic views were shaped by his experiences observing government-controlled economies in Europe. He saw how concentrated power stifled competition and growth, leading him to believe in the importance of individual initiative and competition in a free market.
1976: Death of Yonatan Netanyahu
Tragedy struck Netanyahu's family in 1976 when his older brother, Yonatan Netanyahu, was killed during Operation Thunderbolt, a counter-terrorism hostage-rescue mission in Entebbe, Uganda.
April 1978: Birth of Netanyahu's Daughter Noa
On April 29, 1978, Netanyahu's first daughter, Noa, was born.
1978: Netanyahu Returns to Israel and Leads Anti-Terror Institute
Netanyahu returned to Israel in 1978 and headed the Jonathan Netanyahu Anti-Terror Institute until 1980. This NGO focused on studying terrorism and hosted international conferences on the topic.
1978: Founding of the Yonatan Netanyahu Anti-Terror Institute
After graduating from MIT and working as a consultant, Netanyahu returned to Israel in 1978 and founded the Yonatan Netanyahu Anti-Terror Institute in memory of his brother.
1978: Netanyahu Begins Affair with Fleur Cates
In 1978, while still married to Miriam Weizmann, Netanyahu began an affair with a British student named Fleur Cates. This led to the end of his first marriage.
1978: Netanyahu's Time at Boston Consulting Group Ends
In 1978, Netanyahu concluded his work at the Boston Consulting Group in Boston, Massachusetts, where he had been employed since 1976.
1978: Netanyahu's Television Appearance in Boston
In 1978, Netanyahu appeared on local television in Boston under the name "Ben Nitai", arguing about the core of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He claimed that it stemmed from the Arab refusal to accept the State of Israel, highlighting their missed opportunity to establish a Palestinian state despite controlling the West Bank and Gaza Strip for 20 years.
1980: Netanyahu Transitions from Anti-Terror Institute to Rim Industries
In 1980, Netanyahu transitioned from leading the Jonathan Netanyahu Anti-Terror Institute to taking up a role as director of marketing for Rim Industries in Jerusalem, a position he held until 1982.
1981: Netanyahu Marries Fleur Cates
Netanyahu married Fleur Cates in 1981. She converted to Judaism after their marriage.
1982: Netanyahu's Role During the 1982 Lebanon War
During the 1982 Lebanon War, Netanyahu, despite being called up for reserve duty, chose to remain in his diplomatic position in the US. He acted as a spokesperson for Israel amidst international criticism, effectively presenting Israel's perspective and establishing a public relations system within the embassy.
1982: Netanyahu Starts as Deputy Chief of Mission in Washington D.C.
In 1982, Netanyahu became the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Israeli Embassy in Washington D.C., working under Ambassador Moshe Arens. He held this position until 1984.
1984: Netanyahu Becomes Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations
In 1984, Netanyahu took on the role of Israeli ambassador to the United Nations, a position he held until 1988.
1984: Ambassador to the United Nations
Netanyahu served as Israel's ambassador to the UN from 1984 to 1988.
1987: Jonathan Pollard Espionage Case
In 1987, Jonathan Pollard was convicted for spying for Israel. Netanyahu later advocated for his release.
1988: Netanyahu Joins Likud and Enters Israeli Parliament
Netanyahu returned to Israel and joined the Likud party before the 1988 Israeli legislative election. After securing the fifth spot on the party list, he was elected to the Knesset (Israeli Parliament), starting his political journey in Israel.
1988: Netanyahu Concludes his Term as Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations
In 1988, Netanyahu's term as the Israeli ambassador to the United Nations came to an end.
1988: Cates Files for Divorce from Netanyahu
Fleur Cates filed for divorce from Netanyahu in 1988, following a move to Israel.
July 1991: Birth of Netanyahu's Son Yair
Netanyahu's son, Yair, was born on July 26, 1991.
1991: Netanyahu as Spokesperson During Gulf War and Madrid Conference
During the 1991 Gulf War, Netanyahu served as the primary spokesperson for Israel, utilizing his English fluency for media interviews on platforms like CNN. Later that year, he participated as a member of the Israeli delegation, led by Prime Minister Yitzhak Shamir, at the Madrid Conference. This event marked his significant involvement in international diplomacy.
1992: Likud's Defeat and Shamir's Retirement
The Likud party faced defeat in the 1992 Israeli legislative elections. This event led to a significant shift in the Israeli political landscape, prompting Shamir's retirement from politics.
1993: Extramarital Affair and Political Scandal
In 1993, Netanyahu admitted to an affair with his public relations adviser, Ruth Bar, claiming that the revelation was part of a blackmail scheme by a political rival. Despite this scandal, Netanyahu reconciled with his wife, Sara, and won the leadership of the Likud party.
1993: Elected Chair of Likud
In 1993, Netanyahu's political career advanced when he was elected as chair of the Likud party, becoming the Leader of the Opposition.
1993: Supreme Court Precedent for Ministerial Resignation
In 1993, the Israeli Supreme Court set a legal precedent requiring government ministers to relinquish their portfolios if indicted, a precedent that would later impact Netanyahu's political career.
1993: Netanyahu Elected as Likud Party Leader
Netanyahu emerged victorious in the Likud party leadership election in 1993, defeating prominent figures like Benny Begin and David Levy. His victory positioned him as the new leader of the Likud party, paving the way for his future political endeavors.
1993: Opposition to Oslo Accords and Publication of "Trojan Horse"
Netanyahu's staunch opposition to the Oslo Accords from their inception was evident in 1993 when he authored a chapter titled "Trojan Horse" in his book "A Place Among the Nations." This chapter served as a platform to articulate his arguments against the Oslo peace process. He controversially asserted that Amin al-Husseini played a central role in orchestrating the Holocaust and that Yasser Arafat inherited al-Husseini's alleged "exterminationist Nazism."
October 1994: Birth of Netanyahu's Son Avner
Netanyahu's youngest son, Avner, was born on October 10, 1994.
1994: Jordan Normalizes Relations with Israel
In 1994, Jordan took a historic step by normalizing relations with Israel, setting a precedent for future diplomatic breakthroughs in the region.
1995: Relevance of the 1995 Interim Agreement
The Wye River Memorandum signed in 1998 focused on implementing the Interim Agreement established in 1995. This 1995 agreement played a key role in shaping the discussions and agreements within the ongoing peace process between Israel and Palestine.
1995: Netanyahu's Book on Combating Terrorism
In 1995, Netanyahu released his book "Fighting Terrorism: How Democracies Can Defeat Domestic and International Terrorism." In the book, he strongly advocated for stricter immigration policies in Western nations as a primary means of combating terrorism, arguing that the era of unrestricted immigration should end.
March 1996: Palestinian Suicide Bombings Influence Israeli Election
Two suicide bombings by Palestinians on March 3rd and 4th, 1996, resulted in the deaths of 32 Israelis. The attacks significantly impacted the upcoming election, leading to Shimon Peres's perceived inability to control the situation. Netanyahu, campaigning on a "safe peace" platform, capitalized on this sentiment.
May 1996: Netanyahu Elected Prime Minister of Israel
Netanyahu, the Likud candidate, won the 1996 Israeli legislative election on May 29th, becoming the youngest Prime Minister in Israel's history. This victory was also significant because it was the first Israeli election where citizens directly elected their prime minister, marking a change in Israel's political system.
September 1996: Netanyahu and Arafat's First Meeting
On September 4th, 1996, Netanyahu and Palestinian President Yasser Arafat held their first meeting after a series of telephone conversations. This marked the beginning of a series of meetings that continued throughout Autumn 1996, focused on navigating the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.
1996: Opening of Western Wall Tunnel Exit Sparks Riots
In 1996, Netanyahu and Jerusalem mayor Ehud Olmert decided to open an exit in the Arab Quarter for the Western Wall Tunnel. This action, opposed by previous Prime Minister Shimon Peres, triggered three days of riots involving both Palestinians and Israelis, leading to casualties on both sides.
1996: Media Scrutiny and Allegations of Affairs
In 1996, media reports surfaced about Netanyahu's 20-year friendship with Katherine Price-Mondadori, an Italian-American woman. Netanyahu criticized these reports as intrusions into his personal life and alleged that political opponents were behind the rumors.
1996: First Directly Elected Prime Minister of Israel
Netanyahu achieved a historic milestone in 1996 by becoming the first Israeli prime minister directly elected by popular vote, as well as the youngest person to hold the position.
January 1997: Signing of the Hebron Protocol
The signing of the Hebron Protocol on January 14, 1997, by Netanyahu and the Palestinian Authority, represented a significant step in the peace process. The agreement included the redeployment of Israeli troops from Hebron and the transfer of civilian authority in a large part of the area to the Palestinian Authority, impacting the control and administration of Hebron.
September 1997: Failed Assassination Attempt on Khaled Mashal
In September 1997, Netanyahu authorized a Mossad operation to assassinate Hamas leader Khaled Mashal in Jordan. The operation failed and resulted in the arrest of Mossad agents. Under pressure from King Hussein and President Clinton, Netanyahu released Jordanian and Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the antidote to the poison used in the assassination attempt.
1997: Corruption Charges and Scandals
In 1997, Netanyahu faced allegations of corruption, including influence-peddling and receiving free services from a government contractor. Although police recommended indictment, prosecutors found insufficient evidence for trial in both cases. These scandals contributed to his loss of public support and ultimately his defeat in the 1999 elections.
November 1998: Knesset Approves Wye River Memorandum
On November 17, 1998, the Israeli Knesset voted 75–19 to approve the Wye River Memorandum, signed by Netanyahu and PLO chairman Yasser Arafat. This agreement aimed to implement the 1995 Interim Agreement, detailing steps for both the Israeli government and the Palestinian Authority.
1998: Wye River Summit
Netanyahu attended the Wye River Summit in 1998 where he discussed the release of Jonathan Pollard with President Bill Clinton.
1999: Defeat and Retirement from Politics
Netanyahu's first term as prime minister ended in 1999 when he was defeated in the election. Following this, he retired from politics and entered the private sector.
1999: Further Corruption Allegations
Netanyahu faced another corruption scandal in 1999 when the Israeli Police recommended that he be tried for receiving $100,000 in free services from a government contractor. Israel's attorney general decided against prosecution due to lack of evidence.
1999: Temporary Retirement from Politics
After his defeat in the 1999 Israeli prime ministerial election, Netanyahu temporarily retired from politics. He then worked as a senior consultant for BATM Advanced Communications, an Israeli manufacturer of communications equipment.
2000: Return to Politics
Following the collapse of Ehud Barak's government in late 2000, Netanyahu expressed his desire to return to politics. He argued for general elections instead of just a prime ministerial election, believing it necessary for governmental stability. He ultimately chose not to run, a decision that paved the way for Ariel Sharon's rise to power.
2000: Case 2000 Investigation
In 2000, Case 2000 involved alleged attempts to strike a deal with the publisher of the Yedioth Ahronot newspaper group, Arnon Mozes, to promote legislation to weaken Yedioth's main competitor, Israel Hayom, in exchange for more favorable coverage of Netanyahu.
2000: Case 2000 Investigation
In 2000, Case 2000 involved alleged attempts to strike a deal with the publisher of the Yedioth Ahronot newspaper group, Arnon Mozes, to promote legislation to weaken Yedioth's main competitor, Israel Hayom, in exchange for more favorable coverage of Netanyahu.
2000: Death of Tzila Segal
Netanyahu's mother, Tzila Segal, passed away in 2000.
2001: Recorded Statement on Oslo Accords
In a recorded conversation in 2001, Netanyahu, seemingly unaware of being recorded, expressed his views on the Oslo Accords. These recorded statements provided insights into his stance on the peace process and its implications.
September 2002: Testimony before US Congress
In September 2002, Netanyahu, as a private citizen, provided testimony to the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. He warned about the nuclear threat posed by Saddam Hussein's regime, arguing that Hussein was actively developing nuclear weapons. He advocated for the removal of Hussein, asserting it would have positive repercussions throughout the region.
September 2002: Speech Cancellation at Concordia University
Netanyahu's scheduled speech at Concordia University in Montreal, Canada was cancelled in September 2002 after pro-Palestinian protesters disrupted the event. Netanyahu remained at his hotel for the duration of the protest and later accused the activists of supporting terrorism.
October 2002: Protests in Pittsburgh
In October 2002, about 200 protesters assembled outside Netanyahu's appearances at Heinz Hall in Pittsburgh. Despite the protests, the events continued as planned due to the intervention of Pittsburgh Police, Israeli security, and a Pittsburgh SWAT unit.
2002: Appointment as Foreign Minister
When the Israeli Labor Party left the coalition in 2002, Prime Minister Ariel Sharon appointed Netanyahu as foreign minister. Netanyahu later challenged Sharon for leadership of the Likud party in the 2002 Likud leadership election but was unsuccessful in unseating him.
2002: Visit to Jonathan Pollard
Netanyahu visited Jonathan Pollard in prison in 2002, showing his support for Pollard's release.
2003: Netanyahu's Proposal for Palestinian Statehood
In 2003, as part of his proposal for Palestinian statehood, Netanyahu demanded full demilitarization, an undivided Jerusalem under Israeli control, recognition of Israel as the Jewish national state, and rejection of Palestinian refugees' right of return. He stated that a complete stop to West Bank settlement building was impossible and expansions would be limited based on "natural growth".
2003: Diagnosis of Right Bundle Branch Block
Around 2003, Netanyahu was diagnosed with right bundle branch block, a heart condition.
2003: Netanyahu's Economic Reforms as Finance Minister
As Finance Minister from 2003 to 2005, Netanyahu implemented significant economic reforms, including banking sector reforms, privatization, public sector downsizing, tax system streamlining, and laws against monopolies. He extended capital gains taxes to individuals, widened the tax base, reduced income taxes, and oversaw economic growth and decreased unemployment, leading to claims of an "economic miracle."
2003: Appointment as Finance Minister
After the 2003 Israeli legislative election, Ariel Sharon offered Netanyahu the position of Finance Minister. Some believed Sharon made this move to neutralize Netanyahu as a political rival. Netanyahu agreed to the position, promising to support Sharon's reforms in exchange for autonomy over financial matters.
2004: Opposition to Gaza Pullout Plan
In 2004, Netanyahu threatened to resign from his position as Finance Minister unless a referendum was held on the Gaza pullout plan. He later softened his stance and voted in favor of the plan in the Knesset but still demanded a referendum.
August 2005: Resignation from Finance Ministry
Netanyahu resigned from his position as Finance Minister in August 2005 after the Israeli cabinet voted to approve the initial phase of the withdrawal from Gaza. This occurred shortly after his demand for a referendum on the withdrawal plan was rejected.
September 2005: Early Primaries Bid
Netanyahu attempted to hold early primaries for the leadership of the Likud party while the party held the office of prime minister. This move was widely seen as a maneuver to push Ariel Sharon out of office. However, the party rejected his initiative.
December 2005: Retaking Leadership of Likud Party
Netanyahu was re-elected as the leader of the Likud party in December 2005 after winning 47% of the primary vote. This victory set him on course to become the party's candidate for prime minister in the upcoming 2006 elections.
2005: Dismantling of Israeli Settlements
In 2005, four Israeli settlements (Homesh, Sa-Nur, Ganim, and Kadim) were dismantled as part of Israel's disengagement from Gaza. This action was a significant development in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and was later reversed under Netanyahu's government in 2023.
2005: Netanyahu's Tenure as Finance Minister Ends
Netanyahu's tenure as Israel's Finance Minister concluded in 2005. He was widely credited with overseeing significant economic growth and a decline in unemployment during his time in office.
March 2006: Serving as Leader of the Opposition
Following the March 2006 Knesset elections, Likud came in third place behind Kadima and Labor. As a result, Netanyahu assumed the role of Leader of the Opposition.
March 2007: Netanyahu Compares Iran to Nazi Germany
In March 2007, during a CNN interview, opposition leader Netanyahu controversially compared Iran to Nazi Germany, stating the only difference was the order in which they sought global conflict and nuclear weapons.
August 2007: Re-Election as Likud Chairman
In August 2007, Netanyahu was re-elected as chairman of the Likud party and became the party's candidate for prime minister, receiving 73% of the vote. He defeated Moshe Feiglin and Danny Danon to secure this victory.
April 2008: Netanyahu Reiterates Comparison of Iran to Nazi Germany
Netanyahu reiterated his controversial comparison of Iran to Nazi Germany at a news conference in April 2008, highlighting the threat posed by Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons.
2008: Removal of Colon Polyp
In the first half of 2008, Netanyahu underwent a medical procedure to remove a small colon polyp. Fortunately, the polyp was found to be benign.
2008: Opposition to 2008 Israel-Hamas Ceasefire
Netanyahu opposed the 2008 ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. He criticized the agreement, arguing that it would enable Hamas to re-arm and offered no real benefits to Israel.
January 2009: Information to Tony Blair on Settlement Policy
In January 2009, preceding the February 2009 Israeli elections, Netanyahu communicated to Middle East envoy Tony Blair his intention to uphold the policies of previous Israeli governments led by Ariel Sharon and Ehud Olmert. This included expanding settlements in the West Bank, a move that deviated from the Road Map for peace but without establishing new settlements.
February 2009: Decision to Support New Elections
After Ehud Olmert resigned as prime minister and Tzipi Livni was elected to lead Kadima, Netanyahu declined to join a coalition government led by Livni. Instead, he advocated for new elections, which were ultimately held in February 2009. This decision was influenced by opinion polls suggesting that Likud was in a strong position to win the upcoming elections.
February 2009: Netanyahu Designated as Prime Minister
Despite Likud's second-place finish in the election, Benjamin Netanyahu claimed victory in February 2009 due to the majority of votes going to right-wing parties. He was then designated as Prime Minister by President Shimon Peres and began forming a coalition government.
February 2009: Israeli Elections
February 2009 marked a significant period with the occurrence of the Israeli elections, shaping the political landscape and influencing policy directions.
February 2009: Netanyahu Describes Iran as Israel's Greatest Threat
Upon becoming Prime Minister in February 2009, Netanyahu identified Iran as the most significant threat to Israel's existence since its independence, emphasizing Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons.
March 2009: Netanyahu Presents His Cabinet
In March 2009, Netanyahu formed a broader centrist coalition government, including the Labour party led by Ehud Barak. His cabinet received a vote of confidence and was sworn in, marking the establishment of the 32nd Government.
June 2009: Advocacy for "Economic Peace" Approach and Discussions with Condoleezza Rice
In June 2009, Netanyahu publicly expressed his preference for an "economic peace" approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This approach prioritized economic cooperation and joint efforts over persistent disputes on political and diplomatic matters. Aligning with significant aspects of the Peace Valley plan, he discussed these ideas with former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. As Israeli elections drew closer, Netanyahu continued to advocate for this approach.
June 2009: Bar-Ilan Speech on Israeli-Palestinian Peace Process
In a landmark address delivered at Bar-Ilan University in June 2009, Netanyahu, for the first time, expressed his endorsement of the concept of a Palestinian state coexisting with Israel. This speech, known as the "Bar-Ilan speech," was broadcast live across Israel and parts of the Arab world. It was widely perceived as a response to Obama's speech in Cairo earlier that month, which, according to Yedioth Ahronoth, had a profound impact in Jerusalem.
June 2009: Netanyahu's Bar-Ilan University Speech
Following Obama's Cairo speech, Netanyahu delivered a speech at Bar-Ilan University in June 2009, endorsing a "Demilitarized Palestinian State" under specific conditions. These included Jerusalem remaining Israel's unified capital, Palestinians having no army, and their relinquishing the right of return. This speech drew criticism from Palestinian officials.
July 2009: Netanyahu's Achievements and Approval Rating
By July 2009, Netanyahu highlighted several accomplishments of his cabinet, including the national unity government and a consensus on the two-state solution. His actions like lifting West Bank checkpoints resulted in an economic boost and garnered him a 49% approval rating. Netanyahu's positive response to the Arab Peace initiative marked a significant step in his approach to foreign relations.
August 2009: Promise to Not Repeat Gaza Pullout and Emphasis on Recognition of Israel
During the opening of his weekly cabinet meeting in August 2009, Netanyahu made a commitment to avoid repeating what he perceived as the "mistake" of the Gaza unilateral pullout. He emphasized that "We will not repeat this mistake. We will not create new evacuees," asserting that the unilateral evacuation had failed to bring peace or security. Netanyahu insisted on two key factors for an agreement: recognition of Israel as the national state of the Jewish people and a robust security settlement. He highlighted that both factors were absent in the Gaza situation. Furthermore, he expressed a willingness to pursue peace with "more moderate partners" who acknowledged Israel and agreed to the demilitarization of a future Palestinian state.
August 2009: Netanyahu Reiterates Demands for Palestinian Recognition of Israel
In August 2009, Netanyahu reiterated his demands for Palestinian recognition of Israel as the national state of the Jewish people and a security settlement as preconditions for an agreement.
August 2009: Potential Meeting with Abbas
August 2009 saw a willingness from Palestinian Authority chairman Mahmoud Abbas to meet with Netanyahu at the UN General Assembly. While Netanyahu was open to the "triple summit" with Obama and Abbas, he emphasized it wouldn't automatically translate to negotiations.
September 2009: Netanyahu's Address to the UN General Assembly
In September 2009 at the UN General Assembly, Netanyahu delivered a powerful speech highlighting the threat posed by Iran and the global responsibility to prevent their nuclear armament. His speech, invoking the Holocaust and challenging Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's stance on it, garnered significant attention and fueled existing tensions.
September 2009: Netanyahu's UN Speech on Iran
In September 2009, during his address to the UN General Assembly, Netanyahu countered Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's claims, stating that Iran's threat extends beyond Israel, posing a risk to civilization due to its fanaticism and fundamentalism.
September 2009: Netanyahu's Settlement Freeze Compromise
In September 2009, reports indicated that Netanyahu was nearing a compromise involving continued construction in the West Bank in return for a subsequent freeze on all settlements. This move faced disapproval from the White House, particularly the continuation of building in East Jerusalem.
September 2009: Netanyahu's Secret Trip to Moscow
Netanyahu's unannounced departure from his office in September 2009, later revealed as a secret trip to Moscow, sparked controversy and criticism. The objective of the trip was reportedly to dissuade Russia from selling S-300 missiles to Iran, a move that received mixed reactions and highlighted tensions in international relations.
November 2009: Netanyahu Announces Partial Settlement Freeze
In November 2009, under pressure from the Obama administration, Netanyahu announced a partial 10-month freeze on settlement construction. Despite this being touted as a step towards peace talks, it faced criticism for its limitations and ineffectiveness, being rejected by Palestinians as "insignificant."
2009: Netanyahu's Stance on Palestinian Statehood
In 2009, a difference of opinion arose between Netanyahu and US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton concerning the establishment of a Palestinian state. Netanyahu's position was that any negotiations with Palestinians would be contingent on their recognition of Israel as a Jewish state.
2009: Influx of African Migrants to Israel
Between 2009 and 2013, around 60,000 people from various African countries crossed into Israel. Netanyahu characterized this influx as a serious problem, stating that it threatened the social fabric, national security, and national identity of Israel. Many of these migrants were held in detention facilities in the Negev desert.
March 2010: Construction Approval in East Jerusalem
In March 2010, Netanyahu's government approved the construction of 1,600 apartments in Ramat Shlomo, a Jewish housing development in East Jerusalem, despite US opposition due to the potential negative impact on Israeli-Palestinian peace talks.
March 2010: Netanyahu and Biden Publicly Affirm Decades-Long Friendship
During a visit to Israel in March 2010, Netanyahu and Biden released a joint statement where they remarked that their friendship had started almost three decades prior.
September 2010: Direct Talks with Palestinians
Netanyahu agreed to direct talks with Palestinians in September 2010, mediated by the Obama administration, aiming to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through a two-state solution.
2010: Formation of the Concentration Committee
In 2010, Netanyahu formed the Concentration Committee to address issues related to business concentration and its impact on the Israeli economy.
July 2011: Criticism from Robert Gates
In July 2011, former US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates criticized Netanyahu, accusing him of ungratefulness towards the United States and endangering Israel.
September 2011: Social Justice Protests and the Trajtenberg Committee
In September 2011, Netanyahu appointed the Trajtenberg Committee to address social justice protests sparked by Israel's high cost of living, leading to recommendations for economic reforms.
November 2011: Netanyahu's Defense Budget Cuts and U.S.-Israel Security Cooperation
In 2011, Netanyahu's proposed cuts to the defense budget faced opposition from the Israeli General Staff, who argued that it would negatively impact the military's readiness. Despite initially promising to increase the defense budget, the military ultimately received less funding than anticipated. However, during this period, U.S.-Israel security cooperation reached unprecedented levels under the leadership of Netanyahu and then-President Barack Obama, according to a U.S. State Department representative.
November 2011: Biden Acknowledges Longstanding Friendship with Netanyahu
In November 2011, then-Vice President Joe Biden publicly stated that he had a friendly relationship with Benjamin Netanyahu for 39 years.
2011: Sarkozy's Remarks about Netanyahu
During the 2011 G-20 Cannes summit, then-French President Nicolas Sarkozy was overheard making negative comments about Netanyahu to then-U.S. President Barack Obama, calling him a "liar." Obama reportedly acknowledged Sarkozy's frustration but pointed out that he had to work with Netanyahu regularly.
2011: Netanyahu Orchestrates Prisoner Swap for Gilad Shalit
In 2011, Netanyahu arranged for the release of over 1000 Hamas and Fatah prisoners in exchange for Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit. This exchange sparked controversy as it included individuals involved in violent acts, with concerns raised about the potential for them to re-engage in terrorism.
May 2012: Recognition of Palestinian Statehood
In May 2012, Netanyahu officially recognized the possibility of a demilitarized Palestinian state, a significant development in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.
September 2012: Netanyahu's "Red Line" Speech at the UN
In September 2012, Netanyahu addressed the UN General Assembly and drew a "red line" regarding Iran's uranium enrichment. He argued that if Iran reached 90% enrichment, it would pose an unacceptable threat to Israel, emphasizing his point with a graphic of a bomb. He asserted that Iran was nearing this threshold and could achieve it within months. However, leaked cables later revealed that Mossad, Israel's intelligence agency, believed Iran wasn't prepared to enrich uranium to the level needed for a nuclear weapon at that time.
October 2012: Likud and Yisrael Beiteinu Merger
Netanyahu's Likud party merged with Avigdor Lieberman's Yisrael Beiteinu party in October 2012 for the upcoming 2013 general elections.
November 2012: Ceasefire Agreement
A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas was reached in November 2012, but it was later broken in 2014 following the escalation of tensions.
2012: Netanyahu's Holocaust Remembrance Day Speech
In 2012, Netanyahu used the opening ceremony for Israel's Holocaust Remembrance Day to warn against the dangers of an Iranian nuclear bomb. He likened his warnings to the efforts of Jewish leaders during World War II who tried to alert the world about the Nazis' plans. This comparison drew criticism from some, including Israeli academic Avner Cohen and former Israeli foreign minister Shlomo Ben-Ami, who accused him of using the Holocaust for political gain.
2012: Death of Benzion Netanyahu
Netanyahu's father, Benzion Netanyahu, passed away in 2012.
2012: Netanyahu Supports Integration of African Hebrew Israelites
In 2012, Netanyahu expressed his support for the integration of the African Hebrew Israelite community into Israeli society, acknowledging their experience in Israel as an integral part of the broader Israeli experience.
2012: Biden Reiterates Long-Term Relationship with Netanyahu
During the 2012 US vice presidential debate, Joe Biden again stated that his relationship with Benjamin Netanyahu had lasted for 39 years.
2012: Netanyahu and Barak's Close Relationship Amid Iran Concerns
By 2012, Netanyahu and Defense Minister Ehud Barak formed a close relationship, considering military action against Iran's nuclear program based on Israel's Begin Doctrine. They faced criticism from former security officials Yuval Diskin and Meir Dagan, who deemed their approach as "messianic" and "stupid," respectively. The RAND Corporation also disagreed with their hawkish stance.
2012: Netanyahu Government Passes "Prevention of Infiltration Law"
In 2012, the Netanyahu government enacted the "Prevention of Infiltration Law," which mandated the automatic detention of anyone, including asylum-seekers, entering Israel without authorization. This law drew criticism from Amnesty International, which deemed it a violation of international law.
January 2013: 2013 General Elections
The Israeli general elections were held in January 2013. Netanyahu's Likud Beiteinu coalition faced a setback but remained the largest faction.
May 2013: Netanyahu Caught Between Commitments to U.S. and China
In 2013, Netanyahu faced a difficult situation involving conflicting promises made to the family of American terror victim Daniel Wultz and the Chinese government. Netanyahu had reportedly assured U.S. Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen of Israel's full cooperation in a terror-financing lawsuit against Bank of China in the U.S. District Court. However, he seemingly made a conflicting promise to China before his state visit there in May 2013. This conflict raised concerns about potential obstruction of justice in the American court case.
July 2013: Port Privatization
Netanyahu launched efforts to privatize ports in Haifa and Ashdod in July 2013, intending to reduce consumer prices and boost exports by breaking the alleged monopoly of port workers.
August 2013: Ros-Lehtinen Raises Concerns about Terror-Financing Case
In August 2013, U.S. Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen expressed concerns about the terror-financing case involving the family of American terror victim Daniel Wultz. She revealed she had discussed the matter during a congressional delegation visit to Israel, emphasizing to Israeli officials the need to provide the Wultz family with the necessary support for their lawsuit.
October 2013: Netanyahu's Interview with BBC Persian Service
In October 2013, Netanyahu gave an interview to the BBC Persian Service where he spoke about Iran. He praised the history of Persia but warned that if the Iranian regime acquired nuclear weapons, the Iranian people would never be free from dictatorship.
December 2013: Business Concentration Law
The Business Concentration Law, passed in December 2013, aimed to promote competition and address economic inequality by restricting corporate holding structures, reflecting Netanyahu's economic liberalization policies.
2013: Denial of Reports on Peace Talks Based on Green Line
Netanyahu, in 2013, refuted reports suggesting his government's acceptance of peace talks grounded on the green line.
2013: Netanyahu Seeks New Legislation After Supreme Court Ruling
In 2013, the Supreme Court of Israel ruled that the "Prevention of Infiltration Law" was unlawful because it permitted the immediate and indefinite detention of African asylum seekers. In response, Netanyahu sought new legislation to circumvent the Supreme Court's decision.
2013: Trump Endorses Netanyahu in Israeli Election
In 2013, Donald Trump recorded a video endorsing Netanyahu for the Israeli elections, referring to him as a "terrific guy, terrific leader, great for Israel." This marked the beginning of their long-standing relationship.
2013: Formation of the Thirty-third Government
Despite losing seats in the 2013 election, Netanyahu was tasked with forming a new government, excluding ultra-Orthodox parties.
April 2014: Criticism of Hamas-Palestinian Authority Unity Government
Netanyahu expressed concerns over the Hamas-Palestinian Authority unity government formed in April 2014 and criticized international acceptance of the coalition.
June 2014: Kidnapping of Israeli Teenagers and Operation Protective Edge
Following the kidnapping and murder of three Israeli teenagers in June 2014, tensions escalated between Israel and Hamas. Netanyahu blamed Hamas and launched military operations in Gaza, leading to Operation Protective Edge and the end of the 2012 ceasefire.
October 2014: Netanyahu-Obama Relationship Reaches Crisis Level
In October 2014, tensions between Netanyahu and the Obama administration escalated after Netanyahu accused President Obama of acting against American values. A senior Obama official reportedly called Netanyahu a "chickenshit," further straining the relationship.
October 2014: Netanyahu Government Approves Privatization Plan and Faces Criticism over Settlement Remarks
In October 2014, Netanyahu's government approved a privatization plan aimed at reducing corruption and bolstering Israel's capital market. The plan involved selling minority stakes in various state-owned companies. This same month, Netanyahu faced criticism for his comments on settlements, calling criticisms "against American values." This led to a rebuke from the White House, highlighting a strained relationship between the two administrations.
October 2014: Statements on Gaza Pullout and Peace Process
In October 2014, Netanyahu reiterated his stance on the Gaza pullout and the peace process, underscoring his perspective on these pivotal issues.
November 2014: Israel to Wait for New US President to Repair Relations
By November 2014, the relationship between Netanyahu and the Obama administration had deteriorated to the point that Israel decided to wait until a new US president was elected before trying to mend ties, according to reports by journalist Jeffrey Goldberg.
December 2014: Netanyahu Dismisses Ministers, Leading to Government Dissolution and New Elections
In December 2014, Netanyahu fired two key ministers, Finance Minister Yair Lapid and Justice Minister Tzipi Livni. This action led to the dissolution of the government and triggered new elections scheduled for March 2015.
2014: Criticism by Saeb Erekat
Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat leveled harsh criticism at Netanyahu in 2014, labeling him "ideologically corrupt" and accusing him of war crimes.
2014: Agreement to American Framework Based on Green Line and Advocacy for Settler Options
In 2014, Netanyahu agreed to the American framework for peace predicated on the green line, stipulating that Jewish settlers should retain the option of remaining within their settlements under potential Palestinian rule.
January 2015: Netanyahu Invited to Address US Congress
Netanyahu received an invitation to address the US Congress in January 2015, marking his third time speaking to a joint session.
March 2015: Netanyahu's Planned Speech to Congress Sparks Controversy
In March 2015, Netanyahu's upcoming speech to Congress sparked controversy, with objections arising from both American Jewish communities and Israel's allies. The timing of the speech, shortly before the Israeli elections, and the lack of coordination with the Obama administration drew criticism.
March 2015: Upcoming Elections Following Government Dissolution
Following the dissolution of the government in December 2014, new elections were scheduled for March 2015 in Israel.
May 2015: Netanyahu Forms Coalition Government Following Election Victory
In May 2015, following the elections where his Likud party secured the most seats, Netanyahu successfully formed a coalition government with other parties, including Jewish Home, United Torah Judaism, Kulanu, and Shas.
May 2015: Netanyahu Announces Candidacy for Fifth Term as Prime Minister
In May 2015, Netanyahu declared his intention to run for an unprecedented fifth term as prime minister in the upcoming general election.
August 2015: Netanyahu Government Approves Two-Year Budget with Economic Reforms
In August 2015, Netanyahu's government approved a two-year budget that included agricultural reforms, lowering import duties, deregulation in construction, and reforms in the financial sector. These measures aimed to reduce food and housing costs and stimulate economic growth.
October 2015: Netanyahu's Controversial Claim Regarding the Grand Mufti and the Holocaust
In October 2015, Netanyahu faced significant criticism for asserting that the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem influenced Hitler's decision to exterminate Jews. This claim was widely disputed by historians and drew rebuke from German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Netanyahu later clarified his intention was not to absolve Hitler but to highlight the Mufti's role in inciting violence against Jews.
2015: Netanyahu Addresses Ethiopian Jewish Protests
In response to Ethiopian Jewish protests against police brutality in 2015, Netanyahu vowed to implement a comprehensive plan to address their concerns, emphasizing the unacceptability of racism and discrimination in Israeli society.
2015: Netanyahu's Stance on a Palestinian State in the 2015 Elections
During the 2015 Israeli elections, Netanyahu stated that a Palestinian state would not be established during his term, arguing that it would cede territory to terrorists. However, he reiterated his support for a two-state solution.
2015: Leaked Mossad Assessment on Iran's Nuclear Capabilities
In 2015, leaked cables disclosed that Mossad, Israel's intelligence agency, had assessed in 2012 that Iran didn't appear ready to enrich uranium to the levels required for a nuclear bomb. This assessment contradicted Netanyahu's statements at the UN in September 2012, where he warned that Iran could reach the 90% enrichment threshold within months.
March 2016: Netanyahu's Coalition Faces Crisis over Proposed Non-Orthodox Prayer Space at Western Wall
In March 2016, Netanyahu's coalition faced a potential crisis as ultra-Orthodox members threatened to withdraw due to the government's proposed steps to create non-Orthodox prayer space at the Western Wall. This highlighted tensions within the coalition and the complexities of religious issues in Israel.
December 2016: Netanyahu Criticizes UN Resolution and Kerry's Speech on Israeli Settlements
In December 2016, following the US abstention from a UN resolution critical of Israeli settlements and John Kerry's subsequent speech condemning settlement policies, Netanyahu strongly criticized both the resolution and Kerry's remarks. This event marked heightened tensions between the US and Israel in the final days of the Obama administration.
December 2016: UN Resolution Condemns Israeli Settlements; US Abstains
On December 2016, the UN Security Council passed a resolution calling for an end to Israeli settlements. In a departure from usual practice, the US abstained from the vote, declining to veto the resolution. Netanyahu criticized the Obama administration, alleging collusion with the UN against Israel.
January 2017: Israel Withdraws Annual Dues from the UN
In January 2017, the Israeli government, in response to the UN resolution and John Kerry's criticisms, withdrew its annual dues from the UN, a sum totaling $6 million. This act further emphasized the strained relationship between Israel and the international organization.
January 2017: Netanyahu Investigated in Cases "1000" and "2000"
Starting in January 2017, Netanyahu became the subject of Israeli police investigations in two cases known as "Case 1000" and "Case 2000." The cases involved suspicions of Netanyahu receiving inappropriate favors from businessmen (Case 1000) and engaging in deals with media outlets for favorable coverage (Case 2000).
February 2017: Netanyahu Makes Historic Visit to Australia
In February 2017, Netanyahu became the first serving Israeli prime minister to visit Australia. His three-day visit included a business delegation and the signing of bilateral agreements, strengthening ties between the two nations.
May 2017: Allegation of Showing Fake Video to Trump
Former United States Secretary of State Rex Tillerson alleged that Netanyahu presented a fabricated and manipulated video to Donald Trump on May 22, 2017. The video purportedly showed Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas advocating for the killing of children. This incident occurred during a period when Trump was evaluating whether Israel posed an obstacle to peace. Netanyahu's alleged motive for displaying the fake video was to sway Trump's stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
August 2017: Police Confirm Netanyahu's Suspected Crimes
In August 2017, the Israeli police officially confirmed suspicions of Netanyahu's involvement in crimes related to fraud, breach of trust, and bribery, stemming from Cases "1000" and "2000." Shortly after, reports surfaced of Netanyahu's former chief of staff, Ari Harow, agreeing to testify against him in exchange for a deal with prosecutors.
October 2017: Netanyahu Government Announces Withdrawal from UNESCO
In October 2017, Netanyahu's government announced its intention to withdraw from UNESCO, citing perceived anti-Israel bias within the agency. This decision followed a similar move by the United States.
December 2017: Israel Officially Withdraws from UNESCO
Following the announcement in October, Israel officially notified UNESCO of its withdrawal in December 2017, solidifying its decision to leave the organization.
2017: Netanyahu Calls for Death Penalty in Halamish Stabbing Case
In 2017, following the Halamish stabbing attack, Netanyahu called for the death penalty for the perpetrator. His government subsequently introduced a bill to the Knesset to enable capital punishment for terrorism.
January 2018: Preliminary Vote on Death Penalty Bill
In January 2018, the Knesset held a preliminary vote on the bill allowing the death penalty for terrorism, with 52 out of 120 members supporting it. Despite the majority, the amendment needed three more readings to become law.
February 2018: Police Recommend Corruption Charges Against Netanyahu
In February 2018, Israeli police recommended that Netanyahu face corruption charges, citing sufficient evidence for bribery, fraud, and breach of trust in the ongoing investigations. Netanyahu maintained his innocence and continued his role as prime minister.
April 2018: Netanyahu Accuses Iran of Violating Nuclear Deal
In April 2018, Netanyahu accused Iran of failing to uphold its commitments under the Iran nuclear deal, presenting a collection of over 100,000 documents as evidence of Iran's extensive nuclear program. Iran dismissed Netanyahu's claims as "propaganda."
April 2018: Erdoğan Labels Israel a "Terror State" and Netanyahu a "Terrorist"
In April 2018, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan intensified his rhetoric against Israel, labeling it a "terror state" and calling Netanyahu a "terrorist." This came amidst ongoing tensions between the two leaders.
July 2018: Knesset Passes Nation-State Bill
In July 2018, the Knesset, Israel's parliament, passed the Nation-State Bill, a Basic Law supported by Netanyahu's coalition government. This was seen as advancing a right-wing agenda.
November 2018: Recommendation for Indictment in Cases "1000" and "2000"
In November 2018, Liat Ben-Ari, Director of the Economic Crimes Division, recommended indictment for Netanyahu in both Cases "1000" and "2000," intensifying the legal scrutiny surrounding the prime minister.
2018: Netanyahu Develops Close Ties with Bolsonaro
Following the election of Jair Bolsonaro as president of Brazil in 2018, Netanyahu cultivated a close relationship with him.
2018: Netanyahu Praises North Korea-United States Summit
In 2018, Netanyahu expressed his support for the North Korea-United States summit, viewing it as a positive step towards denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.
2018: Netanyahu Condemns Polish Prime Minister's Holocaust Remarks
In 2018, a new Polish law criminalizing suggestions of Polish complicity in Holocaust crimes sparked controversy. When Polish PM Morawiecki stated that there were "Jewish perpetrators" of the Holocaust, Netanyahu condemned the remark as outrageous. This incident led to a crisis in Israel-Poland relations, eventually resolved through a joint communiqué.
February 2019: Attorney General Announces Intent to Indict Netanyahu
In February 2019, the Israeli attorney general made public his intention to formally indict Netanyahu on charges of bribery and fraud across three distinct cases.
March 2019: Netanyahu and Erdoğan Engage in War of Words
In March 2019, tensions between Netanyahu and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan escalated after Netanyahu stated that Israel was the nation-state of the Jewish people only, leading Turkey to accuse him of racism. The exchange devolved into personal attacks, with Netanyahu calling Erdoğan a dictator and Erdoğan calling Netanyahu a "thief" and "tyrant."
April 2019: Netanyahu Brokers Deal to Unite Right-Wing Parties
Prior to the April 2019 Israeli legislative election, Netanyahu facilitated a deal to unite the Jewish Home party with the far-right Otzma Yehudit party, creating the Union of the Right-Wing Parties. The aim was to overcome the electoral threshold. This move sparked criticism due to Otzma's association with extremist ideology.
June 2019: Netanyahu Renames Golan Heights Settlement After Trump
In June 2019, Netanyahu officially renamed a settlement in the contested Golan Heights in honor of Donald Trump.
November 2019: Netanyahu Formally Indicted
In November 2019, Netanyahu's indictment became official, marking a historic moment as he became the first sitting prime minister in Israel's history to be formally charged with crimes.
January 2020: Trump's Frustration with Netanyahu's Annexation Rhetoric
According to Jared Kushner, a former aide to Donald Trump, Trump became frustrated with Netanyahu's statements regarding the annexation of the Jordan Valley in January 2020. Trump even contemplated endorsing Netanyahu's political rival, Benny Gantz.
January 2020: Support for Trump's Israeli-Palestinian Peace Plan
Netanyahu expressed public support for Trump's Israeli-Palestinian peace plan in January 2020. Following the peace proposal's failure, Trump contended that Netanyahu "never wanted peace" with the Palestinians.
January 2020: Netanyahu Officially Charged
On 28 January 2020, Netanyahu was officially charged with bribery and fraud, solidifying the legal proceedings against him.
May 2020: Netanyahu Sworn in for Fifth Term Amidst Demonstrations
In May 2020, Netanyahu began his fifth term as prime minister, having formed a coalition with Benny Gantz. This period was marked by the COVID-19 pandemic and widespread demonstrations against Netanyahu, further complicating his leadership.
May 2020: Netanyahu's Criminal Trial Begins
In May 2020, Netanyahu's criminal trial commenced, originally scheduled for March but postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This marked the beginning of a lengthy legal process for the prime minister.
September 2020: Signing of Abraham Accords
The U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords, signed on September 15, 2020, at the White House in Washington, D.C., marked a historic moment with the agreement to fully normalize relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates (the Israel–United Arab Emirates normalization agreement) and Bahrain (the Bahrain–Israel normalization agreement). This marked the first instance of Arab countries normalizing relations with Israel since Jordan in 1994.
October 2020: Announcement of Sudan Normalizing Ties with Israel
U.S. President Donald Trump, on October 23, 2020, announced Sudan's decision to commence normalizing ties with Israel, making it the third Arab state to join the Trump administration-brokered Abraham Accords. Sudan's participation was particularly noteworthy given its history of engaging in wars against Israel in 1948 and 1967. Netanyahu expressed gratitude to "President Trump and his team above all," emphasizing their collaborative role in "changing history ... despite all the experts and commentators who said it was impossible." He highlighted Israel's previous isolation and predictions of a political tsunami, contrasting it with the unfolding reality.
2020: Netanyahu's Response to the Baghdad Airport Airstrike
Netanyahu praised the U.S. military's 2020 Baghdad International Airport airstrike, which killed Iranian General Qasem Soleimani. He commended then-President Donald Trump for taking "swift, forceful and decisive" action.
March 2021: Israel Achieves Highest Vaccination Rate
By March 2021, Israel, under Netanyahu's leadership, achieved the highest per capita vaccination rate against COVID-19 globally, demonstrating the country's success in its public health response to the pandemic.
May 2021: Escalation of Tensions in Jerusalem and Operation Guardian of the Walls
In May 2021, heightened tensions in Jerusalem led to Hamas launching rockets from Gaza into Israel, prompting Netanyahu to initiate Operation Guardian of the Walls, an eleven-day military operation.
June 2021: Netanyahu Ousted as Prime Minister
In June 2021, Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid formed a new coalition government, effectively ending Netanyahu's 12-year tenure as prime minister.
December 2022: Netanyahu Sworn in for Sixth Term as Prime Minister
After the 2022 election, Netanyahu secured another victory, returning as prime minister for a sixth term, leading a hardline coalition. His official start date was 29 December 2022.
2022: Netanyahu Leads Opposition into 2022 Election
Following the end of his second premiership, Netanyahu entered his third stint as leader of the opposition, with Likud remaining the largest party. He subsequently led the opposition into the 2022 Israeli legislative election.
2022: Netanyahu's Relationship with Vladimir Putin
In 2022, Netanyahu's book highlighted his warm relationship and "personal friendship" with Russian President Vladimir Putin, describing him positively. However, their relationship became strained after the start of the Israel–Hamas war.
2022: Increased Settlement Construction
During Netanyahu's sixth term in 2022, settlement construction activities saw a significant uptick. This trend continued into 2023, highlighting the government's focus on expanding settlements in the West Bank.
February 2023: Legalization of Settler Outposts in the West Bank
In February 2023, Netanyahu's new government approved the legalization of nine settler outposts in the occupied West Bank. This move sparked condemnation from Israeli peace groups, who viewed it as a step towards annexation.
March 2023: Repeal of Settlement Dismantling Law
In March 2023, Netanyahu's government reversed a 2005 law that had led to the dismantling of four Israeli settlements as part of the disengagement from Gaza. This decision signified a shift in settlement policy under Netanyahu's leadership.
April 2023: Criminal Trial Ongoing
As of April 2023, Netanyahu's criminal trial remained in progress, highlighting the enduring nature of the legal proceedings surrounding the prime minister.
June 2023: Israel Refuses Lethal Weapons to Ukraine
In June 2023, Israel, under Netanyahu's leadership, maintained its stance of not providing lethal weapons to Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. Netanyahu cited concerns about the potential for such weapons to fall into Iranian hands and be used against Israel.
June 2023: Changes in Settlement Construction Approval Process
June 2023 witnessed Netanyahu's coalition streamlining the approval process for settlement construction, granting Finance Minister Smotrich significant authority in this domain. These changes represented a notable departure from the system that had been in place for 27 years.
July 2023: Pacemaker Implantation
In July 2023, Netanyahu underwent a procedure to have a pacemaker implanted due to a heart condition, right bundle branch block, which he had been managing since around 2003.
October 2023: Israel Declares War on Hamas
In October 2023, following a large-scale attack by Palestinian militants from Gaza, Netanyahu declared a state of war against Hamas. His strong rhetoric, threatening to reduce Hamas strongholds to ruins and urging Gaza residents to evacuate, reflected the gravity of the situation.
October 28, 2023: Accused of Using "Dangerous Rhetoric"
On October 28, 2023, Netanyahu faced accusations of using "dangerous rhetoric" by comparing Hamas to Amalek, referencing the Bible and stating: "You must remember what Amalek has done to you, says our Holy Bible. And we do remember." This statement sparked controversy and criticism due to its historical and religious connotations.
November 2023: Rejection of Calls for Ceasefire and Defense of IDF Actions
In November 2023, Netanyahu rejected calls for a ceasefire in the ongoing war, asserting that Israel would "stand firm against the world if necessary." He defended the Israel Defense Forces' continued presence in Gaza "as long as necessary" and the prevention of the Palestinian Authority's return to Gaza. Netanyahu dismissed allegations of Israel breaking international law as "hogwash" and categorized Palestinian civilian casualties as "collateral damage."
December 2023: Criticism During Meeting with Released Hostages and Advocacy for Palestinian Migration
In December 2023, Netanyahu encountered criticism during a meeting with released Israeli hostages, with one hostage accusing him of prioritizing politics over the hostages' return. Additionally, Netanyahu expressed support for the "voluntary migration" of Palestinians from Gaza, sparking further debate and scrutiny.
2023: Netanyahu's Call for Israeli Control over Gaza Strip
During the 2023 Israel–Hamas war, Netanyahu advocated for Israel to assume complete control over security in the Gaza Strip. He argued that the lack of Israeli control had led to the escalation of Hamas terrorism on an unforeseen scale.
March 2024: Hernia Diagnosis
In March 2024, Netanyahu was diagnosed with a hernia.
May 2024: International Criminal Court's Intention to Issue Arrest Warrant
In May 2024, the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court announced their intention to seek an arrest warrant for Netanyahu on multiple counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity. This development marked a significant escalation in the legal and political challenges facing Netanyahu.