In a rare display of dissent within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud Party, several party members have publicly criticized their leader following his controversial decision to retain his spokesman, Ziv Agmon, despite the latter's recent racist remarks directed at Moroccan Jews. Agmon had previously offered to resign after derogatory comments he made about his colleagues of Middle Eastern descent were leaked to the media. However, Netanyahu announced that Agmon would remain in his position, citing an apology from him as the reason for this decision.
This announcement has caught many Likud lawmakers off guard, leading to an unusual backlash against Netanyahu. MK Eli Revivo expressed his outrage, stating, "You cannot spit in our faces and tell us it’s raining," in reference to Agmon's offensive remarks, including calling Revivo a “retarded Moroccan.” Revivo further asserted that anyone who chooses to keep Agmon in his circle shares his views, emphasizing his commitment to fight against such individuals holding any influential position within the party.
Similarly, MK Nissim Vaturi, who was derogatorily referred to as a “baboon” by Agmon, voiced his discontent, declaring that Agmon is unworthy of serving alongside the Prime Minister, regardless of his apology. MK Moshe Saada also chimed in, stressing that Agmon's behavior cannot be normalized. He acknowledged Agmon's apology but firmly stated that someone who has acted in such a manner should not hold a public role, even temporarily. This incident highlights a growing rift within the Likud Party as lawmakers demand accountability and express their disapproval of actions that undermine their values.
As reported by timesofisrael.com.
