Full History Of Benjamin Netanyahu In Timeline From 1911

1911: Family Migration to Palestine

In 1911, Benjamin Netanyahu's mother's family migrated from Minneapolis to Petah Tikva in the Mutasarrifate of Jerusalem.

1938: Analogy to 1938 and Nazi Germany

Netanyahu made remarks likening the situation with Iran to 1938 and Nazi Germany. He stated that Iran is like Germany in 1938 and is racing to arm itself with atomic bombs.

1948: Sudan Fought Against Israel in War

In October 2020, President Trump announced that Sudan would start to normalize ties with Israel. Sudan fought in wars against Israel in 1948.

1948: Establishment of the State of Israel

Yitzhak Rabin was born in Jerusalem, under the British Mandate of Palestine, prior to the 1948 founding of the Israeli state.

October 1949: Birth of Benjamin Netanyahu

In October 1949, Benjamin "Bibi" Netanyahu was born. He would later become Israel's longest-serving prime minister, holding office multiple times.

1949: Benjamin Netanyahu Born

In 1949, Benjamin Netanyahu was born in Tel Aviv.

1956: Family Lived in the United States

Between 1956 and 1958, Benjamin Netanyahu's family lived in the United States.

1958: Family Lived in the United States

Between 1956 and 1958, Benjamin Netanyahu's family lived in the United States.

1963: Family Lived in the United States

From 1963 to 1967, Benjamin Netanyahu's family lived in the United States.

1967: Netanyahu Enlists in the Israel Defense Forces

After graduating from high school in 1967, Benjamin Netanyahu returned to Israel to enlist in the Israel Defense Forces.

1967: Family Lived in the United States

From 1963 to 1967, Benjamin Netanyahu's family lived in the United States.

1967: Support for African Hebrew Israelites' integration

In 1967, Netanyahu supported the integration of the African Hebrew Israelites of Jerusalem into Israeli society and participated in celebrations commemorating their "exodus" from America to Israel.

1967: Sudan Fought Against Israel in War

In October 2020, President Trump announced that Sudan would start to normalize ties with Israel. Sudan fought in wars against Israel in 1967.

March 1968: Battle of Karameh

In March 1968, Benjamin Netanyahu took part in the Battle of Karameh as part of the IDF's attack on Jordan.

May 1972: Rescue of Sabena Flight 571

In May 1972, Benjamin Netanyahu was involved in the rescue of the hijacked Sabena Flight 571, during which he was shot in the shoulder.

1972: Netanyahu Returns to US

In 1972, Benjamin Netanyahu returned to the US after his service in the Israel Defense Forces.

1972: Netanyahu Returns to US to Study Architecture

In late 1972, Benjamin Netanyahu returned to the United States to study architecture at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

October 1973: Yom Kippur War Service

In October 1973, Benjamin Netanyahu returned to serve in the Yom Kippur War.

February 1975: Netanyahu Completes Bachelor's Degree

In February 1975, Benjamin Netanyahu completed a bachelor's degree in architecture from MIT.

1976: Netanyahu Earns Master's Degree

In 1976, Benjamin Netanyahu earned a master's degree from the MIT Sloan School of Management.

1976: Netanyahu Joins the Boston Consulting Group

In 1976, Benjamin Netanyahu started working as an economic consultant for the Boston Consulting Group.

1976: Work for Boston Consulting Group

In 1976, while working for Boston Consulting Group, Netanyahu examined government structures in Europe, comparing them to that of Sweden and concluding that Israel had very little room for private sector competition.

April 1978: Birth of daughter Noa

On April 29, 1978, Netanyahu and his first wife, Miriam Weizmann, had their daughter, Noa.

1978: Netanyahu Appears on Boston Television

In 1978, Benjamin Netanyahu appeared on Boston local television as "Ben Nitay", discussing the Arab-Israeli conflict.

1978: Netanyahu Leaves Boston Consulting Group

In 1978, Benjamin Netanyahu left the Boston Consulting Group.

1978: Netanyahu Returns to Israel and Founds The Jonathan Institute

In 1978, Benjamin Netanyahu moved back to Israel and founded The Jonathan Institute.

1978: Netanyahu Returns to Israel

In 1978, Benjamin Netanyahu returned to Israel and ran the Jonathan Netanyahu Anti-Terror Institute.

1978: Netanyahu began affair with Fleur Cates

In 1978, Netanyahu began an affair with a British student named Fleur Cates while his first wife was pregnant. His marriage ended in divorce soon after Miriam discovered the affair.

1980: Netanyahu Runs Jonathan Netanyahu Anti-Terror Institute

Between 1978 and 1980, Benjamin Netanyahu ran the Jonathan Netanyahu Anti-Terror Institute.

1981: Netanyahu married Fleur Cates

In 1981, Netanyahu married Fleur Cates, and she converted to Judaism.

1982: Netanyahu Becomes Director of Marketing for Rim Industries

In 1982, Benjamin Netanyahu became director of marketing for Rim Industries in Jerusalem.

1982: Netanyahu Becomes Deputy Chief of Mission in Washington D.C.

In 1982, Moshe Arens appointed Benjamin Netanyahu as his Deputy Chief of Mission at the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C.

1984: Netanyahu Becomes Ambassador to the United Nations

Between 1984 and 1988, Benjamin Netanyahu served as the Israeli ambassador to the United Nations.

1988: End of Netanyahu's Tenure as Ambassador to the United Nations

Between 1984 and 1988, Benjamin Netanyahu served as the Israeli ambassador to the United Nations.

1988: End of Netanyahu's Ambassadorship to the UN

In 1988, Benjamin Netanyahu's tenure as Israel's ambassador to the United Nations concluded.

1988: Fleur Cates sued for divorce

In 1988, after moving with Netanyahu to Israel, Fleur Cates sued for divorce.

1988: Netanyahu Enters Politics

Prior to the 1988 Israeli legislative election, Benjamin Netanyahu returned to Israel and joined the Likud party.

July 1991: Birth of son Yair

On July 26, 1991, Netanyahu and his third wife, Sara Ben-Artzi, had their son Yair.

1991: Netanyahu Emerges as Spokesman for Israel During Gulf War

During the Gulf War in early 1991, Benjamin Netanyahu emerged as the principal spokesman for Israel in media interviews on CNN and other news outlets.

1992: Likud Party Defeat

Following the defeat of the Likud party in the 1992 Israeli legislative elections, Shamir retired from politics shortly after the Likud's defeat in the 1992 elections.

1993: Netanyahu Becomes Chair of Likud

In 1993, Benjamin Netanyahu rose to prominence after his election as chair of Likud, becoming leader of the opposition.

1993: Opposition to Oslo Accords in 'A Place Among the Nations'

In 1993, Netanyahu argued against the Oslo peace process in his book A Place Among the Nations, asserting that Amin al-Husseini had been a mastermind of the Holocaust.

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1993: Netanyahu confesses to affair

In 1993, Netanyahu confessed on live television to having an affair with Ruth Bar, his public relations advisor, after a political rival allegedly threatened to release a compromising video.

1993: Netanyahu Elected as Likud Leader

In 1993, the Likud party held a party leadership election, and Benjamin Netanyahu was victorious.

1993: Israeli Supreme Court Precedent on Resignation

In compliance with legal precedent set by the Israeli Supreme Court in 1993, Netanyahu was expected to relinquish certain portfolios after being indicted. This historical context highlights the legal framework surrounding the indictment of a sitting prime minister.

October 1994: Birth of son Avner

On October 10, 1994, Netanyahu and his third wife, Sara Ben-Artzi, had their son Avner.

1994: Normalization of Relations with Jordan

In September 2020, the Abraham Accords were signed. This was the first time an Arab country had normalized relations with Israel since Jordan in 1994.

1995: Argument for tightening immigration laws in 'Fighting Terrorism'

In his 1995 book "Fighting Terrorism: How Democracies Can Defeat Domestic and International Terrorism", Netanyahu argued that tightening immigration laws in the West is the most effective method to combat terrorism, stating that "this era of immigration free-for-all should be brought to an end".

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January 1996: Assassination of Yahya Ayyash and Hamas retaliatory attacks

In January 1996, the Shin Bet assassinated Hamas military leader Yahya Ayyash, leading Mohammed Deif to organize a retaliatory bombing campaign inside Israel.

March 1996: Suicide Bombings

On March 3 and 4, 1996, Palestinians carried out two suicide bombings, killing 32 Israelis, which contributed to the downfall of Shimon Peres during the election.

May 1996: Netanyahu Wins Election and Becomes Prime Minister

On May 29, 1996, Benjamin Netanyahu won the Israeli legislative election, becoming the youngest person in the history of the position and the first Israeli prime minister to be born in the State of Israel.

September 1996: Netanyahu meets Arafat

On 4 September 1996, Netanyahu first met Palestinian President Arafat, starting a series of meetings through Autumn 1996. Discussions focused on mutual needs, security, and well-being, with both leaders expressing determination to work together.

1996: Netanyahu Becomes Prime Minister

In 1996, Benjamin Netanyahu first became the Prime Minister of Israel.

1996: Netanyahu's victory in the 1996 Israeli election

In 1996, Deif's bombing campaign and the failure of Israeli intelligence contributed to the defeat of Prime Minister Shimon Peres and the Labor Party, leading to Netanyahu's victory in the Israeli general election.

1996: Opening of the Western Wall Tunnel exit

In 1996, Netanyahu and Jerusalem's mayor Ehud Olmert decided to open an exit in the Muslim Quarter for the Western Wall Tunnel, resulting in rioting and casualties.

January 1997: Signing of the Hebron Protocol

On 14 January 1997, the talks between Netanyahu and Arafat culminated in the signing of the Hebron Protocol.

1997: Mossad operation to assassinate Khaled Mashal

In 1997, Netanyahu authorized a Mossad operation to assassinate Hamas leader Khaled Mashal in Jordan. The operation failed, leading to a diplomatic crisis and the release of prisoners.

1997: Police recommendation to indict Netanyahu on corruption charges

In 1997, police recommended that Netanyahu be indicted on corruption charges for influence-peddling, but prosecutors ruled that there was insufficient evidence to go to trial.

May 1998: Exchange of remains after the Ansariya ambush

In May 1998, the remains of Israeli soldiers killed in the Ansariya ambush were exchanged for Lebanese prisoners and the bodies of Hezbollah fighters.

November 1998: Approval of the Wye River Memorandum

On 17 November 1998, the Knesset approved the Wye River Memorandum, which was signed by Netanyahu and Arafat.

1998: Netanyahu as a Free-Market Advocate

By 1998, Netanyahu had a reputation as a free-market advocate.

1999: Netanyahu retires from politics

After being defeated by Ehud Barak in the 1999 Israeli prime ministerial election, Netanyahu temporarily retired from politics and worked as a consultant.

1999: Netanyahu Loses Election

In 1999, Benjamin Netanyahu was defeated in an election.

1999: Netanyahu Defeated and Enters Private Sector

In 1999, Benjamin Netanyahu was defeated in the election and entered the private sector.

1999: Statement on Peace and Free Markets

In 1999, Netanyahu told the Jerusalem Post that "peace, without free markets, will not produce growth. But free markets without peace do produce growth."

1999: Police recommendation to try Netanyahu for corruption

In 1999, the Israel Police recommended that Netanyahu be tried for corruption regarding free services from a government contractor, but the attorney general did not prosecute due to difficulties with evidence.

2000: Case 2000 Allegations

Netanyahu allegedly attempted in 2000 to strike a deal with the publisher of the Yedioth Ahronot newspaper group, Arnon Mozes, to promote legislation to weaken Yedioth's main competitor in exchange for more favorable political coverage. The case is called "Case 2000".

2000: Netanyahu desires to return to politics

With the fall of the Barak government in late 2000, Netanyahu expressed his desire to return to politics.

2001: Netanyahu's Remarks on Peace Process (Unbeknownst to Him)

In 2001, Netanyahu, seemingly unaware of being recorded, made remarks criticizing the peace process.

September 2002: Netanyahu lobbies for the invasion of Iraq

On 12 September 2002, Netanyahu lobbied for the invasion of Iraq, testifying before the U.S. House of Representatives about the alleged nuclear threat posed by Saddam Hussein.

September 2002: Speech cancellation at Concordia University

On 9 September 2002, Netanyahu's scheduled speech at Concordia University in Montreal was canceled due to pro-Palestinian protests.

2002: Netanyahu becomes Foreign Minister

In 2002, after the Israeli Labor Party left the coalition, Prime Minister Ariel Sharon appointed Netanyahu as Foreign Minister.

2003: Netanyahu becomes Finance Minister

After the 2003 Israeli legislative election, Sharon offered Netanyahu the Finance Ministry, and he accepted the new appointment.

2003: Finance Minister

From 2003–2005, as finance minister, Netanyahu introduced a welfare to work program, a program of privatization, reduced the public sector, streamlined taxation, and passed laws against monopolies and cartels to increase competition.

August 2005: Netanyahu resigns over Gaza pullout plan

On 7 August 2005, Netanyahu submitted his resignation letter as Finance Minister, shortly before the Israeli cabinet voted to approve the initial phase of withdrawal from Gaza, due to his opposition to the plan without a referendum.

September 2005: Failed attempt to hold early primaries

In September 2005, Netanyahu tried to hold early primaries for the position of the head of the Likud party, but the party rejected this initiative.

December 2005: Netanyahu retakes Likud leadership

On 20 December 2005, Netanyahu retook the leadership of the Likud party with 47% of the primary vote.

2005: Finance Minister

From 2003–2005, as finance minister, Netanyahu introduced a welfare to work program, a program of privatization, reduced the public sector, streamlined taxation, and passed laws against monopolies and cartels to increase competition.

2005: Netanyahu Returns to Lead Likud

In 2005, Benjamin Netanyahu returned to lead the Likud party.

March 2006: Likud takes third place in Knesset elections

In the March 2006 Knesset elections, Likud took the third place, and Netanyahu served as Leader of the Opposition.

2006: Netanyahu Leads Opposition

From 2006, Benjamin Netanyahu led the opposition.

August 2007: Netanyahu reelected as Likud chairman

On 14 August 2007, Netanyahu was reelected as chairman of the Likud party and its candidate for the post of prime minister.

2007: Comparison of Nazi Germany and Iran

In a 2007 interview, Netanyahu stated that the only difference between Nazi Germany and the Islamic Republic of Iran is that Germany sought atomic weapons after a worldwide conflict, while Iran is seeking atomic weapons first to start a world war.

2008: Netanyahu opposes Israel-Hamas ceasefire

In 2008, Netanyahu opposed the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, stating concerns about the rearming of Hamas.

2008: Repeating remarks on Iran

In 2008, Netanyahu repeated his remarks from 2007, drawing a comparison between Nazi Germany and Iran's pursuit of atomic weapons during a news conference.

January 2009: Continuation of West Bank Settlement Expansion

In January 2009, Netanyahu informed Middle East envoy Tony Blair that he would continue expanding West Bank settlements, in contravention of the Road Map, but not building new ones.

February 2009: Netanyahu supports new elections

Following Tzipi Livni's election to head Kadima, Netanyahu declined to join the coalition Livni was trying to form and supported new elections, which were held in February 2009.

February 2009: Describing Iran as greatest threat to Israel

In February 2009, after being asked to be prime minister, Netanyahu described Iran as the greatest threat Israel has ever faced, stating their pursuit of nuclear weapons posed a grave threat since the war of independence.

February 2009: Netanyahu designated as Prime Minister

On 20 February 2009, Netanyahu was designated by Israeli President Shimon Peres to succeed Ehud Olmert as prime minister, after the 2009 Israeli legislative election where Likud won the second highest number of seats.

March 2009: Netanyahu presents his cabinet

On 31 March 2009, Netanyahu presented his cabinet for a Knesset "Vote of Confidence". The 32nd Government was approved that day.

July 2009: Netanyahu's Government Gains Support and Lifts Checkpoints

In July 2009, three months after starting his term, Netanyahu remarked that his cabinet had established a working national unity government, and broad consensus for a "two-state solution". A July 2009 survey found most Israelis supported the government, giving Netanyahu an approval rating of 49 percent. Netanyahu lifted checkpoints in the West Bank to allow free movement and flow of imports; which resulted in an economic boost.

August 2009: Netanyahu Calls for Recognition of Israel

In August 2009 Netanyahu said: "We want...recognition of Israel as the national state of the Jewish people and...a security settlement". Palestinian Authority chairman Mahmoud Abbas declared he would be willing to meet with Netanyahu at the UN General Assembly, where Netanyahu had accepted Obama's invitation for a "triple summit".

September 2009: Speech before the UN on Iran

In September 2009, Netanyahu addressed the UN in New York, countering Iranian President Ahmadinejad's speech. He argued that Iran's regime is driven by fanaticism and seeks to revert to medieval times, viewing the struggle against Iran as civilization versus barbarism.

September 2009: Netanyahu Addresses UN General Assembly on Iranian Nuclear Threat

On September 24, 2009, Netanyahu addressed the UN General Assembly, asserting that Iran posed a threat to world peace and the UN must prevent it from obtaining nuclear weapons. Waving blueprints for Auschwitz, Netanyahu rebuked Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's questioning of the Holocaust.

2009: Migration into Israel from African countries

Between 2009 and 2013, approximately 60,000 people crossed into Israel from various African countries. Netanyahu stated that "this phenomenon is very grave and threatens the social fabric of society, our national security and our national identity."

2009: Netanyahu Endorses "Demilitarized Palestinian State"

Following Obama's Cairo speech in 2009 stating that the US does not accept the legitimacy of continued Israeli settlements, Netanyahu gave a speech on June 14, 2009, endorsing a "Demilitarized Palestinian State." He stated he would accept a Palestinian state if Jerusalem remained the united capital of Israel, the Palestinians had no army, and they gave up their demand for a right of return.

2009: Netanyahu Forms Coalition and Becomes Prime Minister Again

Following the 2009 legislative election, Benjamin Netanyahu formed a coalition and became prime minister again.

2009: Netanyahu Becomes Prime Minister Again

In 2009, Benjamin Netanyahu became prime minister again.

2009: Advocacy for "Economic Peace" Approach

In 2009, Netanyahu advocated for an "economic peace" approach, focusing on economic cooperation rather than political disputes. He discussed these ideas with U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

2009: Hillary Clinton voices support for Palestinian state

In 2009, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton voiced support for the establishment of a Palestinian state, a solution not endorsed by Netanyahu. Clinton pledged US cooperation with Netanyahu, who conditioned negotiations with the Palestinians on them recognizing Israel as a Jewish state.

2009: Promise Not to Repeat "Mistake" of Gaza Pullout

In 2009, at a cabinet meeting, Netanyahu vowed not to repeat the "mistake" of the Gaza pullout, stating that unilateral evacuation brought neither peace nor security. He also stated the need for recognition of Israel and demilitarization of a future Palestinian state for peace.

March 2010: Israel Approves Construction in Jerusalem, Despite US Opposition

In March 2010, Israel's government approved construction of 1,600 apartments in Ramat Shlomo, a Jewish housing development in northeast Jerusalem, despite US opposition. The announcement occurred during a visit by U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, prompting public condemnation from the US. Netanyahu defended the decision, stating it aligned with previous Israeli governments' policies.

September 2010: Netanyahu Agrees to Direct Talks with Palestinians

In September 2010, Netanyahu agreed to enter direct talks, mediated by the Obama administration, with the Palestinians, aiming for a "final status settlement" and a two-state solution. On September 27, 2010, the 10-month settlement freeze ended, and the Israeli government approved new construction in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem.

2011: Sarkozy's remarks about Netanyahu overheard by Obama

During the 2011 G-20 Cannes summit, then-French president Nicolas Sarkozy was overheard saying to then-U.S. president Barack Obama, "I cannot bear Netanyahu, he's a liar", and Obama reportedly responded, "You're fed up with him, but I have to deal with him every day."

2011: Israeli Social Justice Protests and the Trajtenberg Committee

In 2011, Israeli social justice protests erupted due to Israel's high cost of living. Netanyahu appointed the Trajtenberg Committee, which submitted recommendations to lower living costs. Despite Netanyahu's promise to implement the reforms in full, differences within his coalition led to gradual adoption.

2011: Arranging prisoner swap for Gilad Shalit

In 2011, Netanyahu arranged for 1000 Hamas and Fatah prisoners, including terrorists, to be swapped for Gilad Shalit.

2011: Proposed budget cuts and defense spending

In 2011, Netanyahu's proposed budget cuts led the Israeli General Staff to conclude that the armed forces could not maintain battle readiness. Netanyahu then cut social programs instead and promised to increase the defense budget by six percent.

September 2012: Speech to UN General Assembly setting "red line" for Iran

In September 2012, Netanyahu addressed the UN General Assembly, establishing a "red line" at 90% uranium enrichment for Iran, which would pose an unacceptable risk to Israel. He used a cartoon graphic of a bomb to illustrate his point.

October 2012: Likud and Yisrael Beiteinu Announce Merger

In October 2012, Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman announced that their parties, Likud and Yisrael Beiteinu, had merged and would run together on a single ballot in Israel's 2013 elections.

2012: Consideration of military action against Iran

By 2012, Netanyahu reportedly formed a close relationship with Defense Minister Ehud Barak while considering potential military action against Iran's nuclear facilities, in line with Israel's Begin Doctrine.

2012: Warning against Iranian nuclear bomb

Early in 2012, Netanyahu used the opening ceremony for Israel's Holocaust Remembrance Day to warn against the dangers of an Iranian nuclear bomb. Later in 2012, Immediately after the Burgas bus bombing, Netanyahu confirmed it had been undertaken in coordination with Iran.

2012: Appreciation for the Hebrew Israelite community

In 2012, Netanyahu expressed appreciation for the cooperative society working to include the Hebrew Israelite community in Israeli society, stating their experience is integral to the Israeli experience.

2012: Close ties with U.S. Republican Party leadership and Mitt Romney

In 2012, Netanyahu had close ties with the congressional leadership of the U.S. Republican Party and with its 2012 presidential candidate, Mitt Romney, whom he knew from their time at the Boston Consulting Group in the mid-1970s.

2012: Passage of "Prevention of Infiltration Law"

In 2012, the Netanyahu government passed the "Prevention of Infiltration Law", which mandated automatic detention of all people, including asylum-seekers, who enter Israel without permission. Amnesty International criticized it as "an affront to international law".

July 2013: Tenders Issued for Construction of Private Ports

In July 2013, Netanyahu issued tenders for the construction of private ports in Haifa and Ashdod, initiating a campaign of port privatization to break the perceived monopoly held by workers of the Israel Port Authority, aiming to lower consumer prices and increase exports.

August 2013: Ros-Lehtinen raises Wultz case with Israeli officials

In August 2013, Ros-Lehtinen, as chair of the House Middle East and South Asia subcommittee, raised the Daniel Wultz case with Israeli officials during a congressional delegation visit to Israel, stressing the importance of providing the Wultz family with what they needed for their lawsuit.

October 2013: Praising Persian history and expressing concern over Iranian nuclear weapons

In an October 2013 interview, Netanyahu praised the history of Persia and stated that if the Iranian regime possesses nuclear weapons, the Iranian people will never be free from dictatorship and will live in eternal servitude.

December 2013: Knesset Approves Business Concentration Law

In December 2013, the Knesset approved the Business Concentration Law, aimed at opening Israel's concentrated economy to competition to lower consumer prices, reduce income inequality, and increase economic growth.

2013: Denial of Peace Talks Based on Green Line

In 2013, Netanyahu denied reports that his government would agree to peace talks based on the green line.

2013: Caught between commitments to Wultz family and China

In 2013, Netanyahu faced a conflict between commitments to the family of American terror victim Daniel Wultz and the Chinese government, regarding cooperation in a terror-financing case against the Bank of China.

2013: Response to Supreme Court ruling on "Prevention of Infiltration Law"

In 2013, when the Supreme Court of Israel declared the "Prevention of Infiltration Law" illegal for permitting immediate and indefinite detention of asylum seekers from Africa, Netanyahu requested legislation to work around the Supreme Court ruling.

June 2014: Netanyahu Criticizes Hamas-PA Unity Government and Launches Search Operation

In June 2014, Netanyahu voiced concerns about the Hamas and Palestinian Authority unity government, criticizing the US and European governments' decision to work with it. He blamed Hamas for the kidnapping and murder of three Israeli teenagers in June 2014, launching a massive search and arrest operation on the West Bank.

October 2014: Government Approves Privatization Plan and Faces Rebuke Over Settlement Criticism

In October 2014, Netanyahu's government approved a privatization plan. Also in October 2014, Netanyahu called criticism of settlements "against American values," which led to a rebuke from the White House, citing American funding and technology provided to Israel. Jeffrey Goldberg reported that relations between Netanyahu and the White House had deteriorated significantly.

October 2014: Obama administration official calls Netanyahu "chickenshit"

In October 2014, a senior Obama administration official reportedly called Netanyahu a "chickenshit" after Netanyahu accused President Obama of acting contrary to American values, leading to increased tensions and a crisis-level relationship between Netanyahu and the Obama administration.

December 2014: Netanyahu Fires Ministers, Leading to Government Dissolution

On December 2, 2014, Netanyahu fired ministers Yair Lapid and Tzipi Livni, leading to the dissolution of the government and setting the stage for new elections on March 17, 2015.

2014: Agreement to American Framework Based on Green Line

In 2014, Netanyahu agreed to the American framework based on the green line and stated that Jewish settlers must be allowed the option of staying in their settlements under Palestinian rule.

2014: Statements Regarding Peace and Security

In 2014, Netanyahu made statements regarding peace and security.

March 2015: Netanyahu Addresses United States Congress Amid Controversy

In March 2015, Benjamin Netanyahu delivered his third speech to a joint session of the United States Congress. Leading up to the speech, there were objections, including the arrangement of the speech without the support of the Obama administration and its timing before Israel's March 2015 election.

May 2015: Netanyahu Forms Coalition Government

In May 2015, after the 2015 election, Netanyahu returned with his party Likud leading the elections with 30 mandates. President Rivlin granted Netanyahu an extension until May 6, 2015, to build a coalition. Netanyahu formed a coalition government within two hours of the midnight deadline, with Likud forming the coalition with Jewish Home, United Torah Judaism, Kulanu, and Shas.

August 2015: Government Approves Two-Year Budget with Reforms

In August 2015, Netanyahu's government approved a two-year budget aimed at agricultural reforms, lowering import duties to reduce food prices, deregulating construction approval processes to lower housing costs and speed up infrastructure building, and reforming the financial sector to boost competition and lower fees for financial services. Ultimately, the government had to compromise by removing some key agricultural reforms.

October 2015: Netanyahu's controversial claim about al-Husseini and Hitler

In October 2015, Netanyahu stated that the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, Haj Amin al-Husseini, gave Adolf Hitler the idea of exterminating Jews during the Second World War. This claim is dismissed by most historians, as al-Husseini's meeting with Hitler took place approximately five months after the mass murder of Jews began. Israeli academics Yehuda Bauer and Moshe Zimmermann strongly criticized Netanyahu's statement.

2015: Mossad's assessment on Iran's uranium enrichment

According to cables leaked in 2015, Mossad's assessment at the time was that Iran did not appear ready to enrich uranium to levels required for a nuclear bomb.

2015: Response to Ethiopian Jewish Protests Against Police Brutality

In 2015, after Ethiopian Jewish protests against police brutality, Netanyahu pledged a comprehensive plan to assist them and condemned racism and discrimination.

March 2016: Coalition Crisis over Western Wall Prayer Space

In March 2016, Netanyahu's coalition faced a potential crisis as ultra-Orthodox members threatened to withdraw over the government's proposed steps to create non-Orthodox prayer space at the Western Wall. They stated they would leave the coalition if the government offered any further official state recognition of Conservative and Reform Judaism.

December 2016: UN Security Council Resolution 2334 and Criticism from John Kerry

On 23 December 2016, the United States, under the Obama Administration, abstained from United Nations Security Council Resolution 2334, effectively allowing it to pass. On 28 December, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry strongly criticized Israel and its settlement policies in a speech. Netanyahu strongly criticized both the UN Resolution and Kerry's speech in response.

December 2016: UN Security Council passes resolution

On December 23, 2016, the United Nations Security Council passed a resolution calling for an end to Israeli settlements, with the U.S. abstaining from the vote under the Obama administration. President-elect Trump attempted to intervene at the behest of the Netanyahu government.

2016: Netanyahu Emphasizes Closeness to Donald Trump

From 2016, Benjamin Netanyahu made his closeness to Donald Trump central to his appeal.

January 2017: Israel Withdraws Annual Dues from UN

On 6 January 2017, the Israeli government withdrew its annual dues from the organization, which totaled $6 million in United States dollars, following criticism of the UN and its resolution.

January 2017: Investigations Begin in Cases 1000 and 2000

Since January 2017, Netanyahu has been investigated by Israeli police in two connected cases, "Case 1000" and "Case 2000". In Case 1000, Netanyahu is suspected of having obtained inappropriate favors from businessmen, including James Packer and Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan. Case 2000 involves 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 in exchange for more favorable political coverage.

February 2017: Netanyahu's Visit to Australia

In February 2017, Netanyahu became the first serving prime minister of Israel to visit Australia. He was accompanied by his wife, Sara. The three-day official visit included a delegation of business representatives, and Netanyahu and Prime Minister of Australia Malcolm Turnbull were scheduled to sign several bilateral agreements. Netanyahu recalled that it was the Australian Light Horse regiments that liberated Beersheba during World War I.

August 2017: Police Confirm Netanyahu Suspected of Crimes; Ari Harow to Testify

In August 2017, Israeli police confirmed that Netanyahu was suspected of crimes involving fraud, breach of trust, and bribes in Cases 1000 and 2000. The next day, it was reported that the prime minister's former chief of staff, Ari Harow, had signed a deal with prosecutors to testify against Netanyahu.

October 2017: Government Announces Withdrawal from UNESCO

In October 2017, shortly after the US announced the same action, Netanyahu's government announced it was leaving UNESCO due to what it saw as anti-Israel actions by the agency.

December 2017: Israel Officially Notifies UNESCO of Withdrawal

In December 2017, the Israeli government officially notified UNESCO of its withdrawal from the organization, following the initial announcement made in October 2017.

2017: Call for Death Penalty in Halamish Stabbing Attack

In 2017, Netanyahu called for the death penalty for the perpetrator of the 2017 Halamish stabbing attack and representatives introduced a bill which would allow the death penalty for terrorism.

2017: Presentation of Fake Video to Trump Regarding Abbas

In 2017, former US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson stated that Netanyahu showed Trump a fake video of Palestinian president Abbas calling for the killing of children in an attempt to change Trump's position in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

February 2018: Police Recommend Indictment on Corruption Charges

In February 2018, Israeli police recommended that Netanyahu be charged with corruption. According to a police statement, sufficient evidence exists to indict the prime minister on charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust in Cases 1000 and 2000. Netanyahu responded that the allegations were baseless and that he would continue as prime minister.

April 2018: Netanyahu Accuses Iran of Violating Nuclear Deal

In April 2018, Netanyahu accused Iran of not holding up its end of the Iran nuclear deal after presenting a cache of over 100,000 documents detailing the extent of Iran's nuclear program. Iran denounced Netanyahu's presentation as "propaganda".

April 2018: Erdoğan calls Israel a "terror state"

In April 2018, Turkish President Erdoğan escalated tensions by calling Israel a "terror state" and Netanyahu a "terrorist".

July 2018: Knesset Passes Nation-State Bill

In July 2018, the Knesset passed the Nation-State Bill, a Basic Law supported by Netanyahu's coalition government. Analysts saw the bill as a sign of Netanyahu's coalition advancing a right-wing agenda.

November 2018: Recommendation for Indictment in Cases 1000 and 2000

In November 2018, it was reported that Economic Crimes Division Director Liat Ben-Ari recommended indictment for Netanyahu in Cases 1000 and 2000.

2018: Developing a relationship with Jair Bolsonaro

Following Jair Bolsonaro's 2018 election, Netanyahu developed a close relationship with the Brazilian president.

2018: Netanyahu Praises the 2018 North Korea–United States Singapore Summit

In 2018 Netanyahu praised the 2018 North Korea–United States Singapore Summit. He said in a statement, "I commend US President Donald Trump on the historic summit in Singapore. This is an important step in the effort to rid the Korean peninsula of nuclear weapons."

2018: Investigation in Case 4000

In 2018 Netanyahu was also investigated in "Case 4000", where he was suspected of giving regulatory favors to Shaul Elovitch, owner of Bezeq telecommunication company, in exchange for positive publications in news website Walla!.

2018: Crisis in Israel-Poland relations

In 2018, Netanyahu condemned Polish prime minister Mateusz Morawiecki's comment that Jews were among the Holocaust's perpetrators as "outrageous." The resulting crisis in Israel–Poland relations was resolved in late June that year when the two prime ministers issued a joint communiqué.

2018: Preliminary Vote in Favor of Death Penalty for Terrorism

In a preliminary vote in 2018, 52 of 120 members of parliament voted in favor of a bill to make it easier for judges to hand down the death penalty for terrorism.

2018: Start of Israeli Political Crisis

The 2018 Israeli political crisis resulted in a rotation agreement between Netanyahu and Benny Gantz.

February 2019: Attorney General Announces Intent to File Indictments

In February 2019, the Israeli attorney general announced his intent to file indictments against Netanyahu on bribe and fraud charges in Cases 1000, 2000 and 4000.

March 2019: Calling Erdoğan a dictator after being denounced as racist

In March 2019, after being denounced by Turkey as a racist for saying that Israel was the nation-state of the Jewish people only, Netanyahu called Erdoğan a dictator and mocked him for imprisoning journalists in a tweet.

April 2019: Deal to Unite Jewish Home Party with Otzma Yehudit

Prior to the April 2019 Israeli legislative election, Netanyahu helped broker a deal that united the Jewish Home party with the far-right Otzma Yehudit party, in order to form the Union of the Right-Wing Parties. The motivation of the deal was to overcome the electoral threshold for smaller parties. The deal was criticized in the media, as Otzma is widely characterized as racist and traces its origins to the extremist Kahanist movement.

June 2019: Netanyahu renamed settlement after Donald Trump

In June 2019, Netanyahu officially renamed a settlement in the disputed Golan Heights after Donald Trump.

November 2019: Netanyahu Formally Indicted

Netanyahu was formally indicted on 21 November 2019. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison for bribery and a maximum of three years for fraud and breach of trust. He is the first sitting prime minister in Israel's history to be charged with a crime. On 23 November 2019, it was announced that Netanyahu would relinquish his agriculture, health, social affairs and diaspora affairs portfolios.

2019: Netanyahu Indicted on Corruption Charges

In 2019, Benjamin Netanyahu was indicted on charges of breach of trust, bribery, and fraud, and relinquished all ministerial posts except prime minister.

2019: Support for Bolstering Hamas to Thwart Palestinian State

In 2019, Netanyahu stated at a Likud party meeting that supporting and transferring money to Hamas was part of a strategy to isolate Palestinians in Gaza from those in the West Bank and thwart the establishment of a Palestinian state.

January 2020: Public Support for Trump's Israeli-Palestinian Peace Plan

In January 2020, Netanyahu publicly supported Trump's Israeli-Palestinian peace plan.

January 2020: Trump frustrated with Netanyahu's rhetoric

In January 2020, Trump became frustrated with Netanyahu's rhetoric regarding annexation of the Jordan Valley and considered endorsing his political opponent, Benny Gantz.

January 2020: Netanyahu Officially Charged

On 28 January 2020, Netanyahu was officially charged in the corruption cases against him.

May 2020: Criminal Trial Set to Begin

Netanyahu's criminal trial was set to begin on 24 May 2020, having been initially scheduled for March of that year but delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

May 2020: Sworn in for Fifth Term Amidst Protests

On 17 May 2020, Netanyahu was sworn in for a fifth term as prime minister in a coalition with Benny Gantz. Against a background of the COVID-19 pandemic in Israel and Netanyahu's criminal trial, protests broke out against him in front of the prime minister's residence. Following this, Netanyahu ordered to disperse the demonstrations using COVID-19 special regulations, limiting them to 20 people and at a distance of 1,000 meters from their homes. However, the exact opposite was achieved; the demonstrations were enlarged and dispersed to over 1,000 centers.

September 2020: Signing of Abraham Accords at the White House

In September 2020, the Abraham Accords were signed by Bahrain's foreign minister, UAE's foreign minister, and Netanyahu at the White House, leading to normalization of relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.

October 2020: Normalization of Ties Between Sudan and Israel

In October 2020, President Trump announced that Sudan would start to normalize ties with Israel. Netanyahu thanked Trump, stating that "together with him we are changing history".

2020: Praising U.S. airstrike that killed Qasem Soleimani

In 2020, Netanyahu praised the U.S. Baghdad International Airport airstrike that killed Iranian General Qasem Soleimani, stating that Trump acted "swiftly, forcefully and decisively".

2020: Collapse of Rotation Agreement

In 2020, the rotation agreement between Netanyahu and Benny Gantz collapsed, leading to a 2021 election.

March 2021: Israel Achieves High COVID-19 Vaccination Rate

By March 2021, Israel became the country with the highest vaccinated population per capita in the world against COVID-19 under Netanyahu's leadership.

May 2021: Operation Guardian of the Walls Initiated

In May 2021, after tensions escalated in Jerusalem, Hamas fired rockets on Israel from Gaza, which prompted Netanyahu to initiate Operation Guardian of the Walls, lasting eleven days.

June 2021: Netanyahu Removed as Prime Minister

In June 2021, Benjamin Netanyahu was removed as prime minister.

June 2021: Ousted as Prime Minister

On 13 June 2021, Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid formed a coalition government, and Netanyahu was ousted as prime minister, ending his 12-year tenure.

2021: Netanyahu Ends Term as Prime Minister

In 2021, Benjamin Netanyahu's term as Prime Minister ended.

December 2022: Sworn in as Prime Minister for Sixth Term

After the 2022 election, Netanyahu was sworn in as prime minister again as the leader of a hardline coalition. He started his sixth term on 29 December 2022.

2022: Leader of the Opposition

After the end of his second premiership, Netanyahu began his third stint as the leader of the opposition. Likud remained the largest party in the twenty-fourth Knesset. He led the opposition into the 2022 Israeli legislative election.

2022: Netanyahu Returns as Prime Minister

Following the 2022 election, Benjamin Netanyahu returned as Prime Minister.

2022: Netanyahu Becomes Prime Minister Again

In 2022, Benjamin Netanyahu became the Prime Minister of Israel for another term.

2022: Positive description of Vladimir Putin in Netanyahu's 2022 book

In his 2022 book, Netanyahu wrote positively about Russian president Vladimir Putin, describing him as "smart, sophisticated and focused on one goal – returning Russia to its historical greatness".

2022: Increased Settlement Construction

In its first six months, construction of 13,000 housing units in settlements, almost triple the amount advanced in the whole of 2022.

February 2023: Legalization of Settler Outposts

In February 2023, the government approved the legalization of nine settler outposts in the occupied West Bank. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich took charge of most of the Civil Administration, obtaining broad authority over civilian issues in the West Bank. Israeli peace groups condemned the move as de jure annexation of the occupied territories.

April 2023: Criminal Trial Ongoing

As of April 2023, Netanyahu's criminal trial was still ongoing.

June 2023: Israel's Concerns Regarding Weapons to Ukraine

In June 2023, Netanyahu said Israel is concerned "with the possibility that systems that we would give to Ukraine would fall into Iranian hands and could be reverse engineered, and we would find ourselves facing Israeli systems used against Israel."

July 2023: Pacemaker implanted in Netanyahu

On July 22, 2023, a pacemaker was implanted in Netanyahu's body.

September 2023: Continuation of Qatari Transfers to Gaza

As late as September 2023, Netanyahu continued backing Qatari transfers of money to Gaza.

October 2023: Israel Enters War Against Hamas

On 7 October 2023, after Palestinian militants from Gaza launched a major surprise attack, Netanyahu announced that Israel would enter a war against Hamas. He threatened severe retaliation and called Gaza "the city of evil", urging its residents to "leave now".

December 2023: Accusation of genocide in Gaza at the International Court of Justice

In December 2023, Israel under Netanyahu was accused of committing genocide in Gaza in the South Africa v. Israel case before the International Court of Justice.

December 2023: Criticism during meeting with released Israeli hostages

In December 2023, Netanyahu faced criticism during a meeting with released Israeli hostages, with one accusing him of prioritizing politics over the hostages' return. He also advocated for the "voluntary migration" of Palestinians from Gaza.

December 2023: South Africa v. Israel case before the International Court of Justice

In December 2023, Netanyahu's government faced the South Africa v. Israel case before the International Court of Justice, regarding the genocide in Gaza.

2023: Criticism and Protests Following Hamas Attack

In 2023 Netanyahu was criticized for presiding over Israel's biggest intelligence failure in 50 years, and has faced protests calling for his removal. The war led to increased opposition to Netanyahu due to failure to anticipate the Hamas-led attack, with increased calls for Netanyahu's resignation. A 2023 poll showed that 56% of Israelis believed Netanyahu must resign after the war, with 86% holding the country's leadership responsible for the security failings that led to the attack.

2023: Judicial Reform Protests

In early 2023, Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition pursued judicial reform, which was met with large-scale protests.

2023: Diplomacy with China due to strained US ties

Since 2023, Netanyahu and Chinese president Xi Jinping have been engaged in diplomacy, arising due to strained ties between the US and Israel. The diplomatic situation has been made complicated due to the Gaza war, where China has remained neutral.

March 2024: Hernia discovered on Netanyahu

In March 2024, a hernia was discovered on Netanyahu.

May 2024: International Criminal Court Prosecutor Seeks Arrest Warrant

In May 2024, Karim Khan, the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, announced his intention to apply for an arrest warrant for Netanyahu on counts of alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.

July 2024: Address to United States Congress Amidst Protests

In July 2024, Netanyahu addressed a joint session of the United States Congress, amidst widespread protest, to solicit support for the Gaza war. He called protesters "useful idiots" and pledged a "total victory" in Gaza. He also met with Donald Trump and criticized Kamala Harris.

July 2024: Netanyahu and Trump repaired their relationship

In July 2024, Netanyahu and Trump repaired their relationship amid the lead-up to the 2024 United States presidential election, in which Netanyahu endorsed Trump.

October 2024: Drone Attack on Netanyahu's Residence

In October 2024, a drone attack believed to have originated from Lebanon targeted Netanyahu's residence in Caesarea. Netanyahu was not present, and no casualties were reported. He accused Hezbollah of attempting to assassinate him.

November 2024: ICC Issues Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu

In November 2024, The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity as part of the ICC investigation in Palestine.

November 2024: Firing of Defense Minister and ICC Arrest Warrants

On 5 November 2024, Netanyahu fired defense minister Gallant. On 21 November 2024, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu, Gallant, and Hamas commander Mohammed Deif for alleged war crimes, which Netanyahu described as "absurd and false lies" and "antisemitic".

December 2024: Invasion of Syria

After the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024, Netanyahu directed an invasion of Syria.

December 2024: Prostate removed from Netanyahu

In December 2024, Netanyahu's prostate was removed following a urinary tract infection caused by an enlargement.

2024: Pakistan Designates Netanyahu as a "Terrorist"

In 2024, Pakistan officially designated Netanyahu a "terrorist", holding him responsible for atrocities in Gaza.

January 2025: End of Gaza War Ceasefire

The night of March 18, 2025 saw Israel launch a surprise attack on the Gaza Strip, effectively ending the ceasefire of the Gaza war from January 2025.

March 2025: Surprise Attack on Gaza and Postponement of Corruption Trial

On the night of 18 March 2025, Israel launched a surprise attack on the Gaza Strip, ending the January 2025 ceasefire. Netanyahu's corruption trial was postponed as a result of the attacks. In March 2025, he fired Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar.

June 2025: Authorization of airstrikes against Iran

In June 2025, Netanyahu authorized airstrikes against Iran, initiating the Twelve-Day War, with the stated objective of dismantling Iran's nuclear capabilities, which he deemed a clear and present danger to Israel's survival.

August 2025: Statement on "Historic and Spiritual Mission" and Greater Israel

In August 2025, Netanyahu stated in an interview that he was on a "historic and spiritual mission" and strongly supported the vision of Greater Israel, encompassing Palestinian territories and other Arab states.

November 2025: Netanyahu Requests Presidential Pardon

On 30 November 2025, Netanyahu formally asked for a pardon from president Isaac Herzog.

December 2025: Israel Recognizes Somaliland as Independent State

In December 2025, under Netanyahu's leadership, Israel became the first country to recognize Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia, as an independent state.

2025: Israeli Strikes on Iran

In 2025, Benjamin Netanyahu presided over the Israeli strikes on Iran, which started the Twelve-Day War.

2025: Shin Beth Investigation into Ties with Qatar

In 2025, Shin Beth started an investigation into the alleged ties between Netanyahu's advisors and Qatar.

February 2026: Air Campaign Against Iran

In February 2026, Benjamin Netanyahu launched a major air campaign against Iran, alongside the US, with the stated goal of regime change, beginning the 2026 Iran war.

February 2026: Major Military Offensive Launched Against Iran

In February 2026, Israel and the United States launched a major military offensive against Iran with the stated goal of inducing regime change, reportedly at Netanyahu's urging of U.S. President Donald Trump.

February 2026: Authorization of joint airstrikes against Iran

In February 2026, Netanyahu authorized joint airstrikes against Iran in coordination with U.S. President Donald Trump, resulting in the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and the commencement of the 2026 Iran war. He portrayed these military actions as opportunities for regime change in Iran.

February 2026: Summoned for Questioning in Classified Document Leak Investigation

In February 2026, the Attorney General and Cabinet Legal Advisor of Israel summoned Netanyahu to provide explanations to the police regarding an investigation into the leak of classified documents to the German newspaper Bild. The case reportedly concerns attempts to obstruct investigations into the leak of sensitive Israeli documents. Previously, Netanyahu's chief of staff, Tzachi Braverman, was arrested on suspicion of attempting to impede the investigative process regarding the leak to foreign media.

March 2026: False reports of Netanyahu's death

In March 2026, Netanyahu was falsely reported as dead, and he subsequently posted a video mocking the claims.

March 2026: Statement on Israeli Soldiers Accused of Sexual Assault

In March 2026, after Israel dropped charges against Israeli soldiers accused of sexual assault at the Sde Teiman torture camp, Netanyahu stated that "Israel must pursue its enemies – not its heroic fighters".

March 2026: Support of bill Approving Death Penalty

On 30 March 2026, Netanyahu went to the Knesset to be physically present to vote in support of the bill approving the application of the death penalty by hanging for Palestinians in the West Bank convicted of terrorism.

April 2026: Statement on Continued Strikes Against Hezbollah

In April 2026, Netanyahu declared, "There is no ceasefire in Lebanon. We are continuing to strike Hezbollah with full force, and we will not stop until we restore your security."