Netanyahu in Extended Time Magazine Interview: I’d Rather Have Bad Press Than a Good Obituary

JERUSALEM – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed his intention to remain in office for as long as he believes he can contribute to Israel’s security and prosperity. In an interview with Time magazine, Netanyahu stated, “I will stay in office as long as I believe I can help lead Israel to a future of security, enduring security, and prosperity.” He also mentioned, “I’d rather have bad press than a good obituary.”

Israel's embattled Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu answers questions on Gaza, Iran, and his country's future https://t.co/3SyW5Vvz7p pic.twitter.com/KqwTBxhMOj

— TIME (@TIME) August 8, 2024

When asked about his leadership in the face of security failures, Netanyahu reflected on the conditions under which a leader should stay in power. He said, “It depends on what they do. Are they capable of leading the country in war and securing a peaceful postwar situation? If they can, they should remain in power.” He emphasized that the decision ultimately lies with the people.

READ THE FULL INTERVIEW

Regarding a past decision to allow Qatari funds into Gaza, Netanyahu downplayed its impact. He suggested that the real issue was the transfer of weapons and ammunition, not financial aid. He stressed the need to cut off supply routes to prevent future terror.

In discussing past decisions, Netanyahu admitted that his main mistake was not challenging the belief that Hamas was deterred. He conceded that there was a consensus against a full-scale war in 2014 and highlighted the lack of public and international support for such an action at that time.

On the topic of his judicial overhaul and its impact on security, Netanyahu argued that military and intelligence warnings about division affecting deterrence were not applicable to Gaza. He speculated that internal political disagreements might have influenced some members of the military, but not significantly in Gaza.

Addressing whether Hamas and Hezbollah exploited internal divisions in Israel, Netanyahu dismissed it as a major factor, citing that their goal to destroy Israel has long been established. He noted that plans for the attack had been in place before the judicial reforms.

When questioned about criticism for the events of October 7th, Netanyahu likened his situation to that of past leaders facing major crises. He stressed his current focus on winning the war, preventing future attacks, and dismantling Hamas’s military capabilities.