Netanyahu Interview's with TIME Magazine: Speaks about October 7, Remains Committed to Leadership

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued an apology for the events of October 7, while firmly expressing his intention to continue leading the nation. In an interview with Time Magazine, Netanyahu reflected on the tragic events, stating, “I am sorry, deeply, that something like this happened. And you always look back, and you say, Could we have done things that would have prevented it?"

Netanyahu’s comments came in response to questions about whether he bore responsibility for how events unfolded. His response was clear yet complex, as he also pointed a finger at domestic issues, particularly the protestors who refused to serve in the Israeli military over internal political debates. “The refusal to serve because of an internal political debate—I think that, if anything, that had an effect,” he said, highlighting the impact of these divisions on national security.

During the interview, Netanyahu also addressed the issue of Palestinian statehood, affirming his stance against establishing a full Palestinian state but suggesting an alternative approach that involves limited autonomy for Palestinian areas, akin to the current situation in the West Bank. “I agree we should maintain a Jewish majority, but I think we should do it in democratic means,” he said. He emphasized that while Palestinians should govern their own lives, they should not be in a position to threaten Israel. “They should run their own lives. They should vote for their own institutions. They should have their own self-governance. But they should not have the power to threaten us,” he elaborated.

Regarding his future as prime minister, Netanyahu declared his commitment to staying in office, asserting his role in ensuring Israel’s security and prosperity. When asked about the appropriateness of remaining in power after a significant security failure, he challenged the notion by questioning whether opposition leaders could effectively lead the country through war and into a peaceful future. “Are they capable of leading the country in war? Can they lead it to victory? Can they assure that the postwar situation will be one of peace and security? If the answer is yes, they should stay in power,” he responded.

Ultimately, Netanyahu underlined that the decision lies with the Israeli people, asserting, “In any case, that’s the decision of the people.”

As Israel navigates these challenging times, Netanyahu’s reflections and strategic vision for the future play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s path. His commitment to security, coupled with his nuanced approach to complex geopolitical issues, underscores his leadership amid ongoing challenges.

Israel’s strength and perseverance continue to inspire, making it more important than ever to stay informed about developments. Share this article with your friends and family or subscribe to our newsletter for more insights and updates on Israel’s journey forward.