History of Benjamin Netanyahu in Timeline
Benjamin "Bibi" Netanyahu is a prominent Israeli politician and diplomat. He currently serves as the Prime Minister of Israel, a position he assumed in 2022. Notably, he also held the same office from 1996 to 1999 and again from 2009 to 2021. His cumulative time in office makes him the longest-serving prime minister in Israeli history, marking a significant impact on the nation's political landscape.
1910: Birth of Benzion Netanyahu
In 1910, Netanyahu's father, Benzion Netanyahu, was born in Warsaw.
1911: Segal family migrated from Minneapolis
In 1911, Tzila Segal's family migrated from Minneapolis.
1912: Birth of Tzila Segal
In 1912, Netanyahu's mother, Tzila Segal, was born in Petah Tikva.
1938: Netanyahu remarks it's 1938 and Iran is Germany
Netanyahu made earlier remarks that "it's 1938, and Iran is Germany, and Iran is racing to arm itself with atomic bombs".
1948: Sudan fought in wars against Israel
1956: Family lived in the United States
Between 1956 and 1958, Netanyahu's family lived in the United States in Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania, while his father taught at Dropsie College.
1963: Family lived in the United States again
From 1963 to 1967, Netanyahu's family lived in the United States again while his father taught at Dropsie College.
1967: Graduated from high school
In 1967, Netanyahu graduated from Cheltenham High School.
1967: Returned to Israel to Join the Israel Defense Forces
In 1967, Netanyahu returned to Israel to join the Israel Defense Forces and served in the Sayeret Matkal special forces unit.
1967: African Hebrew Israelites Exodus to Israel
In 1967, Netanyahu supports the integration of the African Hebrew Israelites of Jerusalem into Israeli society, and takes part in celebrations in honor of this community's "exodus" from America to Israel.
1967: Sudan fought in wars against Israel
1967: Reference to the 1967 Khartoum conference
In November 1998, Netanyahu referenced the 1967 Khartoum conference, emphasizing a policy of "three no(s)": no withdrawal from the Golan Heights, no discussion of the case of Jerusalem, no negotiations under any preconditions.
March 1968: Participated in the Battle of Karameh
In March 1968, Netanyahu took part in the Battle of Karameh during the War of Attrition.
May 1972: Rescued Sabena Flight 571
In May 1972, Netanyahu was involved in the rescue of the hijacked Sabena Flight 571, during which he was shot in the shoulder.
1972: Move to the United States
In 1972, Netanyahu and Miriam Weizmann moved to the United States for their studies. Miriam enrolled in Brandeis University, while Netanyahu studied at MIT.
1972: Returned to the US
In 1972, Netanyahu returned to the US and started graduating from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He then worked for the Boston Consulting Group.
1972: Returned to the US to study at MIT
In late 1972, Netanyahu returned to the United States to study architecture at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
October 1973: Served in the Yom Kippur War
In October 1973, Netanyahu returned to Israel to serve in the Yom Kippur War.
February 1975: Completed bachelor's degree
In February 1975, Netanyahu completed a bachelor's degree in architecture from MIT.
1976: Worked for the Boston Consulting Group
Between 1976 and 1978, Netanyahu worked as an economic consultant for the Boston Consulting Group in Boston, Massachusetts.
1976: Earned a master's degree from MIT
In 1976, Netanyahu earned a master's degree from the MIT Sloan School of Management.
1976: Netanyahu's Views on Government Power
In 1976, while working for Boston Consulting Group, Netanyahu observed European governments stymied by concentrations of power, which shaped his views on the importance of 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: Appeared on Boston local television
In 1978, Netanyahu appeared on Boston local television, under the name "Ben Nitay", to discuss the Arab-Israeli conflict.
1978: Founded the Yonatan Netanyahu Anti-Terror Institute
In 1978, Netanyahu moved back to Israel and founded the Yonatan Netanyahu Anti-Terror Institute.
1978: Returned to Israel
In 1978, Netanyahu returned to Israel and began running the Jonathan Netanyahu Anti-Terror Institute.
1978: Affair with Fleur Cates
In 1978, while Miriam Weizmann was pregnant, Netanyahu began an affair with Fleur Cates, a British student, whom he met at the university library.
1980: Director of marketing for Rim Industries
From 1980 to 1982, Netanyahu was director of marketing for Rim Industries in Jerusalem.
1981: Marriage to Fleur Cates
In 1981, Netanyahu married Fleur Cates, who converted to Judaism.
1982: Deputy Chief of Mission at the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C.
In 1982, Moshe Arens appointed Netanyahu as his Deputy Chief of Mission at the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C.
1984: Israeli ambassador to the United Nations
From 1984 to 1988, Netanyahu served as the Israeli ambassador to the United Nations.
1987: Jonathan Pollard's Espionage
In 1987, Jonathan Pollard, an American, was sentenced to life in prison for passing secret U.S. documents to Israel. Netanyahu would later unsuccessfully call for his early release.
1988: Divorce from Fleur Cates
In 1988, after moving with Netanyahu to Israel, Fleur Cates sued for divorce.
1988: Joined the Likud party
Prior to the 1988 Israeli legislative election, Netanyahu returned to Israel and joined the Likud party.
July 1991: Birth of Son Yair
In July 1991, Netanyahu and his third wife, Sara Ben-Artzi, had their son, Yair.
1992: Likud party defeat
Following the defeat of the Likud party in the 1992 Israeli legislative elections.
1993: Confessed Affair
In 1993, Netanyahu confessed on live television to having an affair with Ruth Bar, his public relations adviser, following a threat to release compromising video footage. He and Sara repaired their marriage, and he was elected to the leadership of Likud.
1993: Netanyahu Argues Against Oslo Peace Process in "A Place Among the Nations"
In 1993, Netanyahu dedicated a chapter, entitled "Trojan Horse", of his book "A Place Among the Nations" by Benjamin Netanyahu, to argue against the Oslo peace process.
1993: Elected chair of Likud
In 1993, Netanyahu rose to prominence after being elected as chair of Likud, becoming leader of the opposition.
1993: Legal Precedent Set by Israeli Supreme Court
In 1993, the Israeli Supreme Court set a legal precedent regarding the relinquishment of portfolios in the event of indictment, which was later applied to Netanyahu in November 2019.
1993: Victory in Likud party election
In 1993, the Likud party held a party leadership election, and Netanyahu was victorious, defeating Benny Begin and David Levy.
October 1994: Birth of Son Avner
In October 1994, Netanyahu and Sara Ben-Artzi had their son, Avner.
1995: Interim Agreement of 1995
In 1995, the Interim Agreement was reached, which the Wye River Memorandum sought to implement in November 1998.
1995: Netanyahu's Book on 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.
January 1996: Hamas Terrorist Attacks and Assassination of Yahya Ayyash
In January 1996, the months leading up to the Israeli election were marked by a series of Hamas terrorist attacks within Israel. Following the assassination of Hamas military leader Yahya Ayyash on January 5, 1996, by the Shin Bet, Mohammed Deif orchestrated a bombing campaign, including the Dizengoff Center suicide bombing and Jaffa Road bus bombings. Allegations arose that Syria and Iran assisted in planning and financing these attacks.
March 1996: Wave of Suicide Bombings
On 3 and 4 March 1996, Palestinians carried out two suicide bombings, killing 32 Israelis.
May 1996: Won the election
Netanyahu won the 1996 election on 29 May 1996, becoming the youngest person in the history of the position.
September 1996: Netanyahu Meets with Arafat in September 1996
On September 4, 1996, Netanyahu first met with Palestinian President Arafat after a phone conversation. The two leaders continued to meet through the autumn of 1996. During their first meeting, Netanyahu emphasized the need to consider the needs of both sides, ensuring the security and well-being of both Israelis and Palestinians. Arafat expressed his determination to work with Netanyahu and his government.
1996: Netanyahu's Victory in the 1996 Israeli General Election
In 1996, Deif's bombing campaign and perceived failures of Israeli intelligence contributed to the defeat of Prime Minister Shimon Peres and the Labor Party in the Israeli general election. This led to the victory of Netanyahu's Likud party, which opposed the Oslo Accords. After the 1996 election, attacks ceased for almost a year.
1996: Opening of the Western Wall Tunnel Exit in 1996
In 1996, Netanyahu, along with Jerusalem's mayor Ehud Olmert, decided to open an exit in the Arab Quarter for the Western Wall Tunnel, a project that former Prime Minister Shimon Peres had put on hold. This decision triggered three days of rioting by Palestinians, resulting in the deaths of dozens of Israelis and Palestinians.
1996: Media Reports Friendship with Katherine Price-Mondadori
In 1996, the media reported that Netanyahu had a 20-year friendship with Katherine Price-Mondadori, an Italian-American woman.
1996: Became Prime Minister of Israel
In the 1996 general election, Netanyahu became the first Israeli prime minister elected directly by popular vote.
January 1997: Signing of the Hebron Protocol in January 1997
On January 14, 1997, Netanyahu and Arafat's talks culminated in the signing of the Hebron Protocol, marking a key development in their ongoing negotiations.
September 1997: Mossad Operation to Assassinate Khaled Mashal in September 1997
In September 1997, Netanyahu authorized a Mossad operation to assassinate Hamas leader Khaled Mashal in Jordan. On September 27, 1997, the Mossad team injected poison into Mashal's ears in Amman. The plot was exposed, leading to the arrest of agents and a standoff at the Israeli embassy. King Hussein demanded the antidote, and Netanyahu relented after pressure from US President Bill Clinton, ordering the release of Jordanian and Palestinian prisoners, including Sheikh Ahmad Yassin. This incident damaged Israeli-Jordanian relations.
1997: Police recommendation for Netanyahu Indictment in 1997
In 1997, police recommended that Netanyahu be indicted on corruption charges for influence-peddling. He was accused of appointing an attorney general who would reduce the charges but prosecutors ruled that there was insufficient evidence to go to trial.
May 1998: Exchange of Remains After the Ansariya Ambush in May 1998
On May 25, 1998, the remains and body parts of at least three soldiers who died in the Ansariya ambush were exchanged for 65 Lebanese prisoners and the bodies of 40 Hizbullah fighters and Lebanese soldiers captured by Israel. Netanyahu called it "one of the worst tragedies that has ever occurred to us".
November 1998: Approval of the Wye River Memorandum in November 1998
In November 1998, Netanyahu and PLO chairman Arafat signed the Wye River Memorandum, detailing steps for the Israeli government and Palestinian Authority to implement the 1995 Interim Agreement. On November 17, 1998, the Knesset approved the Wye River Memorandum by a vote of 75–19. Netanyahu emphasized a policy of "three no(s)": no withdrawal from the Golan Heights, no discussion of the case of Jerusalem, no negotiations under any preconditions, referencing the 1967 Khartoum conference.
1998: Wye River Summit and Pollard
At the Wye River Summit in 1998, Netanyahu claimed that U.S. president Bill Clinton had privately agreed to release Jonathan Pollard, who was serving a life sentence for spying for Israel.
1998: Netanyahu as 'the advocate of the free-market'
By 1998, Netanyahu had gained a reputation as 'the advocate of the free-market'.
1999: Temporary Retirement from Politics in 1999
After being defeated by Ehud Barak in the 1999 Israeli prime ministerial election, Netanyahu temporarily retired from politics. He subsequently served as a senior consultant with Israeli communications equipment manufacturer BATM Advanced Communications for two years.
1999: Corruption Scandal and Defeat in 1999 Election
In 1999, Netanyahu faced another corruption scandal when the Israel Police recommended he be tried for corruption for $100,000 in free services from a government contractor. Israel's attorney general did not prosecute, citing difficulties with evidence. Major Israeli failures against Hamas and Hezbollah and subsequent releases of imprisoned leaders are thought to have contributed to his defeat in the 1999 Israeli general election.
1999: Netanyahu on Peace and Free Markets
In 1999, Netanyahu told the Jerusalem Post that peace without free markets would not produce growth, but free markets without peace do produce growth.
1999: Defeated in election
In 1999, Netanyahu was defeated in the election and entered the private sector.
2000: Case 2000
In 2000, 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.
2000: Death of Tzila Segal
In 2000, Netanyahu's mother, Tzila Segal, passed away.
2000: Desire to Return to Politics in Late 2000
With the fall of the Barak government in late 2000, Netanyahu expressed his desire to return to politics. He insisted that general elections should be held, claiming that otherwise it would be impossible to have a stable government. Netanyahu decided eventually not to run for the prime minister position, a move which facilitated the rise to power of Ariel Sharon.
2001: Netanyahu's Remarks on Oslo Peace Process
In 2001, Netanyahu, reportedly unaware he was being recorded, made remarks regarding the Oslo peace process.
September 2002: Netanyahu Lobbies for Invasion of Iraq in September 2002
On September 12, 2002, Netanyahu lobbied for the invasion of Iraq, testifying under oath before the U.S. House of Representatives Government Reform Committee regarding the alleged nuclear threat posed by the Iraqi régime. He stated that Saddam was seeking to develop nuclear weapons and guaranteed that removing Saddam's regime would have positive reverberations on the region.
September 2002: Speech Cancellation at Concordia University in September 2002
On September 9, 2002, a scheduled speech by Netanyahu at Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec, Canada was canceled after hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters overwhelmed security and smashed through a window. Netanyahu, who was not present, accused the activists of supporting terrorism. Weeks later, around 200 protesters met Netanyahu outside his Heinz Hall appearance in Pittsburgh.
2002: Visit to Jonathan Pollard
In 2002, Netanyahu visited Jonathan Pollard at his North Carolina prison. He maintained contact with Pollard's wife and actively pressed the Obama administration for his release.
2002: Appointment as Foreign Minister in 2002
In 2002, after the Israeli Labor Party left the coalition and vacated the position of foreign minister, Prime Minister Ariel Sharon appointed Netanyahu as foreign minister. Netanyahu challenged Sharon for the leadership of the Likud party in the 2002 Likud leadership election, but failed to oust him.
2003: Appointment as Finance Minister in 2003
After the 2003 Israeli legislative election, Sharon offered Netanyahu the Finance Ministry. It was speculated that Sharon made the move to diminish Netanyahu's popularity. Netanyahu accepted the appointment, agreeing to remain silent on Sharon's management of military and foreign affairs in exchange for complete freedom as finance minister and Sharon's backing of his reforms.
2003: Netanyahu Becomes Minister of Finance
In 2003, as Minister of Finance, Netanyahu introduced a major overhaul of the Israeli economy, including welfare-to-work programs, privatization, and tax reforms.
2003: Diagnosis of RBBB
Netanyahu has been suffering from right bundle branch block (RBBB) since around 2003.
2004: Threat to Resign over Gaza Pullout Plan in 2004
In 2004, Netanyahu threatened to resign from office unless the Gaza pullout plan was put to a referendum. He later modified the ultimatum and voted for the program in the Knesset.
August 2005: Resignation over Gaza Withdrawal in August 2005
On August 7, 2005, Netanyahu submitted his resignation letter shortly before the Israeli cabinet voted to approve the initial phase of withdrawal from Gaza.
September 2005: Attempt to Hold Early Primaries in September 2005
In September 2005, Netanyahu tried to hold early primaries for the position of head of the Likud party, while the party held the office of prime minister. The party rejected this initiative.
December 2005: Retaking Likud Leadership in December 2005
On December 20, 2005, Netanyahu retook the leadership with 47% of the primary vote.
2005: Netanyahu's Economic Policies Credited with 'Economic Miracle'
By 2005, commentators widely credited Netanyahu with an 'economic miracle' due to the booming Israeli economy and reduced unemployment.
2005: Returned to lead Likud
In 2005, Netanyahu returned to lead the Likud party.
March 2006: Likud Takes Third Place in March 2006 Knesset Elections
In the March 2006 Knesset elections, Likud took the third place behind Kadima and Labor and Netanyahu served as Leader of the Opposition.
2006: Led the opposition
Between 2006 and 2009, Netanyahu led the opposition.
March 2007: Netanyahu Compares Iran to Nazi Germany
In a March 2007 CNN interview, Netanyahu compared the Islamic Republic of Iran to Nazi Germany, stating the only difference was the order in which they sought atomic weapons and worldwide conflict.
August 2007: Reelection as Chairman of Likud in August 2007
On August 14, 2007, Netanyahu was reelected as chairman of the Likud and its candidate for the post of prime minister with 73% of the vote.
April 2008: Netanyahu Repeats Comparison of Iran to Nazi Germany
In April 2008, Netanyahu repeated his remarks comparing Iran to Nazi Germany, emphasizing Iran's pursuit of atomic weapons.
2008: Colon Polyp Removal
In the first half of 2008, doctors removed a small colon polyp from Netanyahu that proved to be benign.
January 2009: Netanyahu to Expand West Bank Settlements
In January 2009, Netanyahu informed Tony Blair that he would continue expanding West Bank settlements, but not building new ones.
February 2009: Decline to Join Coalition and Support for New Elections in February 2009
Following Tzipi Livni's election to head Kadima and Olmert's resignation, Netanyahu declined to join the coalition Livni was trying to form and supported new elections, which were held in February 2009. Netanyahu was the Likud's candidate for prime minister in the 2009 Israeli legislative election.
February 2009: Designation as Prime Minister in February 2009
In the February 2009 election, Likud won the second highest number of seats. Netanyahu claimed victory and on February 20, 2009, was designated by Israeli President Shimon Peres to succeed Ehud Olmert as prime minister, beginning negotiations to form a coalition government.
March 2009: Formation of Government
In March 2009, despite a right-wing majority in the Knesset, Netanyahu sought a centrist coalition. After Tzipi Livni declined due to peace process disagreements, Ehud Barak's Labor Party joined, lending a centrist tone. On March 31, 2009, Netanyahu's government was approved by a 69-45 vote and sworn in.
June 2009: Netanyahu Advocated "Economic Peace" Approach
In June 2009, Netanyahu refused to commit to the same two-state solution and advocated for an "economic peace" approach, based on economic cooperation and joint effort rather than political contention.
June 2009: Obama's Cairo Speech and Netanyahu's Response
In June 2009, following President Obama's Cairo speech where he opposed continued Israeli settlements, Netanyahu held a special government meeting. On June 14, 2009, Netanyahu gave a speech at Bar-Ilan University endorsing a "Demilitarized Palestinian State" under certain conditions, including Jerusalem as Israel's united capital and no Palestinian army.
July 2009: Government Successes and Public Approval
In July 2009, three months into his term, Netanyahu highlighted his government's successes, including national unity and consensus on a "two-state solution." A Ha'aretz survey in July 2009 showed high approval, and Netanyahu lifted West Bank checkpoints, boosting the economy. He also welcomed the Arab Peace Initiative.
August 2009: Netanyahu Promises Not to Repeat Gaza Pullout Mistake
On August 9, 2009, Netanyahu promised not to repeat the "mistake" of the Gaza pullout, stating that "the unilateral evacuation brought neither peace nor security. On the contrary".
August 2009: Demand for Recognition of Israel
On August 9, 2009, Netanyahu stated the need for recognition of Israel as the national state of the Jewish people as a factor for agreement. In August 2009, Mahmoud Abbas expressed willingness to meet Netanyahu at the UN General Assembly.
September 2009: Settlement Construction Compromise
In September 2009, Netanyahu reportedly considered a compromise involving continued construction in the West Bank in exchange for a settlement freeze. On September 4, 2009, it was reported that Netanyahu agreed to approve more settlement constructions before a temporary settlement freeze agreement took place, which led to regret from the White House.
September 2009: Netanyahu Addresses UN on Iranian Threat
On 24 September 2009, Netanyahu addressed the UN General Assembly, expressing a differing opinion than Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's speech at the forum. He described the Iranian regime as fueled by fanaticism and posing a threat to civilization.
September 2009: UN General Assembly Address
On September 24, 2009, addressing the UN General Assembly in New York, Netanyahu warned of Iran's threat and the need to prevent its nuclear weapon acquisition. He passionately responded to Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's Holocaust denial, displaying blueprints for Auschwitz.
September 2009: Secret Flight to Moscow
On September 7, 2009, Netanyahu left his office without reporting his destination. On September 9, 2009, Yedioth Ahronoth reported Netanyahu's secret flight to Moscow to dissuade Russia from selling S-300 missiles to Iran, leading to public criticism and the dismissal of his military secretary.
November 2009: Partial Settlement Freeze Announcement
On November 25, 2009, Netanyahu announced a partial 10-month settlement construction freeze in response to Obama administration pressure. While the U.S. acknowledged the gesture's limitations, it was considered more than any prior Israeli government had done. Palestinians rejected the call as insignificant.
2009: Became Prime Minister again
Following the 2009 legislative election, Netanyahu formed a coalition and once again became prime minister.
2009: US Support for Palestinian State
In 2009, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton supported a Palestinian state, differing from Netanyahu's stance. He conditioned negotiations on Palestinian recognition of Israel as a Jewish state upon the arrival of President Obama's special envoy, George Mitchell.
March 2010: Approval of East Jerusalem Construction
In March 2010, Israel approved construction of 1,600 apartments in Ramat Shlomo, East Jerusalem, during a visit by U.S. Vice-president Joe Biden, drawing strong condemnation. Netanyahu defended the decision as consistent with past Israeli government policies on Jerusalem.
March 2010: Netanyahu's Remarks on Friendship with Biden
In March 2010, Netanyahu remarked during a joint statement with Joe Biden that their friendship had started almost three decades prior.
September 2010: Agreement to Direct Talks
In September 2010, Netanyahu agreed to direct talks with the Palestinians, mediated by the Obama administration, to form a two-state solution. On September 27, the 10-month settlement freeze ended, and the Israeli government approved new construction in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem.
2010: Formation of the Concentration Committee
In 2010, Netanyahu formed the Concentration Committee, which aimed to open Israel's concentrated economy to competition, lower consumer prices, reduce income inequality, and increase economic growth.
July 2011: Robert Gates' Criticism
Upon retiring from office in July 2011, former U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates criticized Netanyahu as ungrateful and endangering Israel. The Likud party defended Netanyahu, citing broad support within Israel and the United States.
September 2011: Trajtenberg Committee Recommendations
In September 2011, the Trajtenberg Committee, appointed by Netanyahu and headed by professor Manuel Trajtenberg, submitted recommendations to lower the high cost of living in Israel, following widespread social justice protests. Reforms were gradually adopted due to coalition differences.
November 2011: US State Department Representative speaks on Security Cooperation
According to a U.S. State Department representative in November 2011, under the leadership of Netanyahu and Obama, Israel and the United States have enjoyed unprecedented security cooperation.
November 2011: Biden Remarks on Relationship with Netanyahu
In November 2011, Joe Biden stated that his relationship with Netanyahu had lasted for 39 years.
2011: Sarkozy-Obama conversation
During the 2011 G-20 Cannes summit, then-French president Nicolas Sarkozy was overheard telling 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: Prisoner Swap for Gilad Shalit
In 2011, Netanyahu arranged for 1000 Hamas and Fatah prisoners to be swapped for Gilad Shalit, including terrorists with 'blood on their hands'.
May 2012: Recognition of Palestinian State
In May 2012, Netanyahu officially recognized for the first time the right for Palestinians to have their own state in an official document, a letter to Mahmoud Abbas, though he declared it would have to be demilitarized.
September 2012: Netanyahu Sets 'Red Line' for Iran at UN
On 28 September 2012, Netanyahu addressed the UN General Assembly, setting a 'red line' of 90% uranium enrichment for Iran, illustrating his point with a cartoon graphic of a bomb.
October 2012: Likud-Yisrael Beiteinu Merger
On October 25, 2012, Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman announced that their political parties, Likud and Yisrael Beiteinu, had merged and would run together in the January 2013 general elections.
2012: Netanyahu Considers Military Action Against Iran
By 2012, Netanyahu and Defense Minister Ehud Barak considered possible Israeli military action against Iran's nuclear facilities, leading to accusations of 'messianic' impulses and warmongering rhetoric.
2012: Netanyahu uses Holocaust Remembrance Day to warn 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, saying he was following the example of Jewish leaders during World War II who struggled to raise the alarm about the Nazis' genocidal intentions. Israeli academic Avner Cohen accused Netanyahu of showing "contempt" for the Holocaust by putting it to "political use", and former Israeli foreign minister Shlomo Ben-Ami similarly condemned Netanyahu's "vulgar manipulation of the memory of the Holocaust". Immediately after the 2012 Burgas bus bombing, Netanyahu confirmed that the attack had been undertaken in coordination with Iran.
2012: Netanyahu Supports Inclusion of Hebrew Israelite Community
In 2012, Netanyahu expressed appreciation for the cooperative society working towards the inclusion of the Hebrew Israelite community in Israeli society and declared their experience an integral part of the Israeli experience.
2012: Ties with Mitt Romney
In 2012, Netanyahu maintained close ties with the congressional leadership of the U.S. Republican Party and its presidential candidate, Mitt Romney. They had known each other since working at the Boston Consulting Group in the mid-1970s.
2012: Death of Benzion Netanyahu
In 2012, Netanyahu's father, Benzion Netanyahu, passed away.
2012: Prevention of Infiltration Law Passed
In 2012, the Netanyahu government passed the "Prevention of Infiltration Law", mandating automatic detention for individuals entering Israel without permission. Amnesty International criticized the law as "an affront to international law".
2012: Biden Mentions Long-Lasting Relationship
In the 2012 U.S. vice presidential debate, Joe Biden stated that his relationship with Netanyahu has lasted for 39 years.
January 2013: Likud-Yisrael Beiteinu Election
In January 2013, Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman competed in general elections after merging Likud and Yisrael Beiteinu.
May 2013: Conflicting commitments to the family of terror victim Daniel Wultz and the Chinese government.
In May 2013, Netanyahu found himself caught between conflicting commitments made to the family of American terror victim Daniel Wultz and the Chinese government. Prior to a state visit to China Netanyahu made a conflicting promise to the Government of China.
July 2013: Privatization of Ports
In July 2013, Netanyahu issued tenders for private port construction in Haifa and Ashdod, aiming to break the Israel Port Authority workers' monopoly and lower consumer prices.
August 2013: Congressional delegation to Israel
In August 2013, Ros-Lehtinen, chair of the House Middle East and South Asia subcommittee, told the Miami Herald she raised the issue while leading a congressional delegation to Israel, stressing to Israeli officials the importance of them providing the Wultz family what they need for their lawsuit.
October 2013: Netanyahu on Iranian Regime and Nuclear Weapons
In an October 2013 interview with BBC Persian Service, Netanyahu stated that if the Iranian regime had nuclear weapons, the Iranian people would never be free of dictatorship.
December 2013: Approval of Business Concentration Law
In December 2013, the Knesset approved the Business Concentration Law, aiming to increase competition, lower consumer prices, reduce income inequality, and increase economic growth.
2013: Trump Endorses Netanyahu
In 2013, Donald Trump made a video endorsing Netanyahu during the Israeli elections, calling him a "terrific guy, terrific leader, great for Israel".
2013: Netanyahu Denies Reports of Peace Talks on the Basis of the Green Line
In 2013, Netanyahu denied reports that his government would agree to peace talks on the basis of the green line.
June 2014: Netanyahu criticizes Hamas, PA, US, and Europe
In June 2014, Benjamin Netanyahu voiced strong concerns about the unity government formed by Hamas and the Palestinian Authority, criticizing the United States and European governments for engaging with the Palestinian coalition. He blamed Hamas for the kidnapping and murder of three Israeli teenagers that same month, leading to a large-scale search and arrest operation in the West Bank and strikes on 60 targets in Gaza. The discovery of the teenagers' bodies on June 30, 2014, further escalated the conflict.
October 2014: Privatization plan approved and Criticism of settlements
In October 2014, Netanyahu's government approved a privatization plan to reduce corruption and politicization in government companies, and strengthen Israel's capital market. That same month, Netanyahu called criticism of settlements "against the American values", which earned him rebuke from the White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest.
October 2014: Obama Administration Criticism
In October 2014, tensions between Netanyahu and the Obama administration escalated after a senior official of the Obama administration called Netanyahu "chickenshit." Observers characterized the relationship as having reached a crisis level by October 2014.
December 2014: Ministers Fired, Government Dissolved
On December 2, 2014, Netanyahu fired ministers Yair Lapid and Tzipi Livni, which led to the dissolution of the government.
2014: Netanyahu Agrees to American Framework Based on the Green Line
In 2014, Netanyahu agreed to the American framework based on the green line and said that Jewish settlers must be allowed the option of staying in their settlements under Palestinian rule.
2014: Netanyahu's Views on the Palestinian State
In 2014, Netanyahu made remarks regarding the recognition of the State of Israel and the demilitarization of the future Palestinian state.
2014: Saeb Erekat Criticizes Netanyahu
In 2014, Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat criticized Netanyahu, calling him "ideologically corrupt" and a war criminal.
March 2015: Netanyahu Addresses US Congress
In March 2015, Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the United States Congress, marking his third speech to a joint session. The day before announcing he would address Congress, Time reported that he tried to derail a meeting between U.S. lawmakers and the head of Mossad, Tamir Pardo, who intended warning them against imposing further sanctions against Iran, a move that might derail nuclear talks.
March 2015: New Elections
In March 2015, new elections were scheduled following the dissolution of the government.
May 2015: Netanyahu Returns as Prime Minister
In May 2015, Netanyahu's party, Likud, won the election with 30 mandates. He was granted an extension to build a coalition and formed a government with Jewish Home, United Torah Judaism, Kulanu, and Shas by the May 6 deadline.
August 2015: Government Approves Two-Year Budget
In August 2015, Netanyahu's government approved a two-year budget aimed at agricultural reforms, lowering import duties, deregulation in construction, and financial sector reforms. The government ultimately compromised by removing some key agricultural reforms.
October 2015: Controversy over Holocaust claim
In October 2015, Netanyahu faced criticism for stating that the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, Haj Amin al-Husseini, gave Adolf Hitler the idea of exterminating Jews. This claim was widely dismissed by historians.
2015: Mossad's assessment of Iran's readiness for nuclear bomb
In 2015, according to cables leaked, Mossad's assessment was that Iran did not appear ready to enrich uranium to levels required for a nuclear bomb.
2015: Statements on Palestinian State
In 2015, as election day approached, Netanyahu stated that a Palestinian state would not be established during his term, citing concerns that it would lead to attacks on Israel by radical Islamic terrorists. However, he reiterated his support for a peaceful, sustainable two-state solution.
2015: Netanyahu on Racism and Discrimination
In 2015, following Ethiopian Jewish protests against police brutality, Netanyahu pledged to bring a comprehensive plan to assist the community 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 proposed steps to create non-Orthodox prayer space at the Western Wall.
December 2016: UN Security Council Resolution
On December 23, 2016, the United Nations Security Council passed a resolution calling for an end to Israeli settlements. The U.S., under the Obama administration, abstained from the vote. At the behest of the Netanyahu government, President-elect Trump attempted to intercede. Netanyahu's office alleged that "the Obama administration not only failed to protect Israel against this gang-up at the UN, it colluded with it behind the scenes".
December 2016: US Abstains from UN Security Council Resolution
On December 23, 2016, the United States, under the Obama Administration, abstained from United Nations Security Council Resolution 2334, effectively allowing it to pass. Netanyahu strongly criticized the resolution.
2016: Waiting for the 2016 Presidential Election
Due to evident rifts between Netanyahu and members of the Obama administration, it was reported that Israel would wait until after the 2016 presidential election before attempting to repair the relationship with the White House.
2016: Closeness to Donald Trump
From 2016, Netanyahu made his closeness to Donald Trump central to his appeal.
January 2017: Israeli government withdraws dues from UN
In January 2017, the Israeli government withdrew its annual dues from the United Nations, which totaled $6 million in United States dollars.
January 2017: Police Investigation Begins
Since January 2017, Netanyahu has been investigated by Israeli police in two connected cases, "Case 1000" and "Case 2000".
February 2017: First Serving Prime Minister of Israel to Visit Australia
In February 2017, Netanyahu became the first serving prime minister of Israel to visit Australia. The three-day official visit included a delegation of business representatives, and bilateral agreements with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.
May 2017: Netanyahu Shows Trump Altered Video of Abbas
On May 22, 2017, Netanyahu showed Trump a fake and altered video of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas calling for the killing of children, according to former United States Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.
August 2017: Netanyahu suspected of fraud, breach of trust, and bribes
In August 2017, Israeli police confirmed that Netanyahu was suspected of crimes involving fraud, breach of trust, and bribes in the two cases. 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 Leaving UNESCO
In October 2017, Netanyahu's government announced it was leaving UNESCO due to what it saw as anti-Israel actions by the agency.
December 2017: Government Officially Notifies UNESCO of Withdrawal
In December 2017, the Israeli government officially notified UNESCO of its withdrawal from the organization.
2017: Netanyahu calls for death penalty in stabbing attack.
In 2017, Netanyahu called for the death penalty to be imposed on the perpetrator of the 2017 Halamish stabbing attack and representatives in his government introduced a bill allowing the death penalty for terrorism to the Knesset.
January 2018: Vote in favor for death penalty for terrorists
In January 2018, 52 of 120 members of the Israeli parliament voted in favor while 49 opposed, to make it easier for judges to hand down the death penalty. The amendment to the penal code would still require three more readings if it is to become law.
February 2018: Police Recommend Indictment
In February 2018, Israeli police recommended that Netanyahu be charged with corruption.
April 2018: Accusations Against Iran's Nuclear Program
In April 2018, Netanyahu accused Iran of violating the Iran nuclear deal, presenting documents detailing Iran's nuclear program. Iran dismissed the presentation as "propaganda".
April 2018: Erdoğan Calls Israel a Terror State
In April 2018, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan called Israel a "terror state" and Netanyahu a "terrorist", further escalating tensions between the two leaders.
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.
November 2018: Indictment Recommended for Both Cases
In November 2018, Economic Crimes Division Director Liat Ben-Ari recommended indictment for both cases.
2018: Relationship with Jair Bolsonaro
Following Jair Bolsonaro's election in 2018, Netanyahu developed a close relationship with the Brazilian President.
2018: Praised the 2018 North Korea–United States summit
In 2018, Netanyahu praised the 2018 North Korea–United States summit.
2018: Case 4000 investigation
In 2018, Netanyahu was 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 early 2018, a crisis arose in Israel-Poland relations after Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki's controversial comment about Jewish perpetrators in the Holocaust. Netanyahu condemned the comment as "outrageous." The crisis was resolved in late June 2018 with a joint communiqué endorsing research into the Jewish Holocaust and condemning the misnomer "Polish concentration camps".
2018: Israeli political crisis
The 2018–2022 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 the three cases.
March 2019: Netanyahu-Erdoğan Dispute
In March 2019, tensions escalated between Netanyahu and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan after Turkey denounced Netanyahu as a racist. Netanyahu responded by calling Erdoğan a dictator and mocking him for imprisoning journalists.
April 2019: Brokered Deal Uniting Jewish Home and 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 deal was criticized in the media, as Otzma is widely characterized as racist and traces its origins to the extremist Kahanist movement.
June 2019: Settlement Renamed 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 November 21, 2019. On November 23, 2019, it was announced that Netanyahu would relinquish his agriculture, health, social affairs and diaspora affairs portfolios.
2019: Netanyahu Supports Bolstering Hamas to Thwart Palestinian State
In 2019, Netanyahu said at a private Likud party meeting, "Anyone who wants to thwart the establishment of a Palestinian state has to support bolstering Hamas and transferring money to Hamas."
2019: Indicted on charges
In 2019, Netanyahu was indicted on charges of breach of trust, bribery and fraud, and relinquished all ministerial posts except prime minister.
January 2020: Netanyahu Publicly Supports Trump's Peace Plan
In January 2020, Netanyahu publicly supported Trump's Israeli-Palestinian peace plan.
January 2020: Trump's Frustration with Netanyahu
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 January 28, 2020, Netanyahu was officially charged.
May 2020: Criminal Trial Set to Begin
Netanyahu's criminal trial was set to begin on May 24, 2020, having been initially scheduled for March but delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
May 2020: Sworn in for Fifth Term
On May 17, 2020, Netanyahu was sworn in for a fifth term as prime minister in a coalition with Benny Gantz. Protests broke out against him in front of the prime minister's residence, and he ordered the demonstrations to be dispersed using COVID-19 special regulations.
September 2020: Abraham Accords Signed
On September 15, 2020, the Abraham Accords, normalizing relations between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain, were signed at the White House.
October 2020: Sudan to Normalize Ties with Israel
In October 2020, U.S. President Trump announced that Sudan would begin normalizing relations with Israel as part of the Abraham Accords, making it the third Arab state to do so. Netanyahu expressed his gratitude to "President Trump and his team above all".
2020: Netanyahu Praises U.S. Airstrike Killing Soleimani
In 2020, Netanyahu praised the U.S. military's Baghdad International Airport airstrike that killed Iranian General Qasem Soleimani, saying Trump had acted 'swiftly, forcefully and decisively'.
2020: Rotation agreement collapsed
In 2020, the rotation agreement between Netanyahu and Benny Gantz collapsed, leading to a 2021 election.
March 2021: Israel Leads in COVID-19 Vaccination
By March 2021, Israel became the country with the highest vaccinated population per capita in the world against COVID-19.
June 2021: Netanyahu Ousted as Prime Minister
In June 2021, Naftali Bennett announced an agreement with Yair Lapid to form a rotation government. On June 13, 2021, Bennett and Lapid formed a coalition, leading to Netanyahu's ousting as prime minister and ending his 12-year tenure.
June 2021: Removed from premiership
In June 2021, Netanyahu was removed from the premiership.
December 2022: Netanyahu Sworn in as Prime Minister Again
In December 2022, following the 2022 election, Netanyahu was sworn in as prime minister again as the leader of a hardline coalition. He officially started his sixth term on December 29, 2022.
2022: Returned after election
After the 2022 election, Netanyahu returned to the premiership.
2022: Increase in Settlement Housing Construction
In 2022 construction of 13,000 housing units in settlements, almost triple the amount advanced in the whole of 2022.
2022: Became Prime Minister of Israel
In 2022, Benjamin Netanyahu once again became the Prime Minister of Israel, marking his return to the office.
2022: Netanyahu's Book on Putin
In 2022, Netanyahu's book revealed his positive view of Vladimir Putin, describing him as "smart, sophisticated and focused on one goal – returning Russia to its historical greatness".
2022: Netanyahu Leads Opposition into Election
In 2022, after the end of his second premiership, Netanyahu led the opposition into the 2022 Israeli legislative election. Likud remained the largest party in the twenty-fourth Knesset.
February 2023: Government Approves Legalization of Settler Outposts
In February 2023, Netanyahu's new government approved the legalization of nine settler outposts in the occupied West Bank. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich assumed control over most of the Civil Administration, gaining broad authority over civilian issues in the West Bank.
March 2023: Government Repeals 2005 Law on Settlements
In March 2023, Netanyahu's government repealed a 2005 law dismantling four Israeli settlements (Homesh, Sa-Nur, Ganim, and Kadim) as part of the Israeli disengagement from Gaza.
April 2023: Criminal Trial Ongoing
As of April 2023, Netanyahu's criminal trial was still ongoing.
June 2023: Coalition Shortens Settlement Construction Approval Process
In June 2023, Netanyahu's coalition shortened the procedure for approving settlement construction and granted Finance Minister Smotrich the authority to approve one of the stages, altering a system that had been in place for 27 years.
July 2023: Pacemaker Implanted
On July 22, 2023, a pacemaker was implanted in Netanyahu's body.
September 2023: Netanyahu Backed Qatari Payments to Gaza
As late as September 2023, Netanyahu continued backing Qatari payments to Gaza, in response to Qatari questions.
October 2023: Criticism and Protests Against Netanyahu
In October 2023, Netanyahu faced criticism for Israel's intelligence failure and public protests calling for his removal. A poll indicated that 56% of Israelis believed he must resign after the war, with 86% holding the leadership responsible for security failings. He was also accused of using "dangerous rhetoric" by comparing Hamas to Amalek.
October 2023: Israel Enters War Against Hamas After Surprise Attack
On October 7, 2023, following a major surprise attack by Palestinian militants from Gaza, Netanyahu announced that Israel would enter a state of war against Hamas. He threatened severe retaliation and urged Gaza residents to evacuate.
December 2023: Criticism and Accusations Against Netanyahu
In December 2023, Netanyahu faced criticism from released hostages and was accused of prioritizing politics over their return. He also suggested supporting the "voluntary migration" of Palestinians from Gaza and was accused of genocide, leading to the South Africa v. Israel case before the International Court of Justice.
December 2023: Accused of genocide in Gaza
In December 2023, Netanyahu's government was accused of genocide in Gaza, leading to the South Africa v. Israel case before the International Court of Justice.
2023: Judicial reform protests
In early 2023, Netanyahu's coalition pursued judicial reform, which was met with large-scale protests.
2023: Diplomacy with China
Since 2023, Netanyahu has been engaged in diplomacy with Chinese President Xi Jinping amid strained ties between the US and Israel. This diplomatic situation has been complicated due to the Gaza war, in which China has remained neutral.
March 2024: Hernia Discovered
In March 2024, a hernia was discovered on Netanyahu.
May 2024: ICC Prosecutor Seeks Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu
In May 2024, Karim Khan, the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, announced his intention to apply for an arrest warrant for Netanyahu on allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
July 2024: Netanyahu Addresses US Congress Amid Protests
In July 2024, Netanyahu addressed a joint session of the United States Congress to seek support for the Gaza war amidst widespread protests. He also met with Donald Trump and criticized Kamala Harris.
July 2024: Pakistan designates Netanyahu a "terrorist"
In July 2024, Pakistan officially designated Netanyahu a "terrorist", holding him responsible for atrocities in Gaza.
October 2024: Survived assassination attempt and ordered invasion of Lebanon
In October 2024, Netanyahu survived an assassination attempt and ordered an invasion of Lebanon with the goal of destroying Hezbollah's military capabilities.
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 during the attack, and no casualties were reported. He accused Hezbollah of attempted assassination.
November 2024: Netanyahu Fires Defense Minister and ICC Issues Arrest Warrants
In November 2024, Netanyahu fired Defense Minister Gallant, triggering protests. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu, Gallant, and Hamas commander Mohammed Deif for alleged war crimes during the Gaza war. Netanyahu dismissed the ruling as "absurd and false lies" and "antisemitic".
November 2024: ICC arrest warrant issued
In November 2024, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity as part of the ICC investigation in Palestine.
December 2024: Prostate Removal
In December 2024, Netanyahu's prostate was removed following a urinary tract infection caused by an enlargement.
December 2024: Directed an invasion of Syria
In December 2024, following the fall of the Assad regime, Netanyahu directed an invasion of Syria against the current Syrian government.
March 2025: Israel Attacks Gaza and Netanyahu Fires Shin Bet Chief
In March 2025, Israel launched a surprise attack on the Gaza Strip, ending the ceasefire, and Netanyahu's corruption trial was postponed. He also fired Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, who accused the government of investigating Qatar's involvement in the Prime Minister's Office.
May 2025: Netanyahu on Forced Emigration of Palestinians
In May 2025, Netanyahu stated that the destruction of homes in Gaza would lead to the forced emigration of Palestinians.
2025: Shin Beth Investigates Ties Between Netanyahu's Advisors and Qatar
In 2025, Shin Beth started an investigation into the alleged ties between Netanyahu's advisors and Qatar.
Mentioned in this timeline
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