A Rhetorical Tug of War: Israeli Leaders and the Iran Conflict
Three Individuals - Katz, Ben-Gvir, and Smotrich - Make Statements
Jerusalem (AP) - The war between Israel and Iran has turned the spotlight on the country's political landscape, with Defense Minister Israel Katz being under close scrutiny. This position, more than any other in Israel, carries significant weight. Known for his aggressive personality, Katz is often referred to as a "relentless force." However, his aggressive rhetoric towards Iran has raised eyebrows, especially during this conflict.
Katz's social media posts are a daily barrage of militaristic and threatening statements aimed at Iran and its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He frequently refers to the "Iranian serpent" that must be "dealed with." His rhetoric often fuels speculation about Israel's next moves, making headlines worldwide.
One particularly controversial remark was the outright statement that Khamenei should no longer exist. During a visit to the city of Cholon, which was previously attacked by Iran, Katz compared Khamenei to Hitler. If Israel had been present during World War II, he claimed, they would have killed Hitler in his bunker.
Netanyahu's Cautious Approach
Rumors have circulated that Israel is planning a coup in Iran as part of its offensive. However, high-ranking representatives of the Israeli government have been reserved on the matter. Even US President Donald Trump is said to have objected to a suspected Israeli plan to assassinate Khamenei according to a US government representative.
Katz's remarks in Cholon were met with criticism. Prime Minister Netanyahu, seemingly displeased with Katz's bold advance, promptly responded, "One should choose one's words carefully in war, and one's actions with precision." The motto is: "Say less, do more."
The Extremist Faction's Rebellious Stance
There are several individuals in Netanyahu's government who are known for their radical rhetoric beside Katz. Among them is Minister of Police, Itamar Ben-Gvir, and Minister of Finance, Bezalel Smotrich. These right-wing ministers are often seen as an example of the right-wing shift under Netanyahu’s leadership in the international media.
Ben-Gvir defended Katz's remarks regarding Khamenei and the potential coup in Iran, posting, "The Ayatollah regime must be eliminated." He praised the "sturdy nation" and "powerful army" for their efforts. Smotrich, in an interview with Channel 14, echoed Katz's sentiments, stating, "Khamenei's fate is sealed."
Netanyahu has maintained a tough stance since the war began, but he balances Katz's extreme remarks with more measured tones. In a recent television interview, he clarified another of Katz's statements, emphasizing that a regime change in Iran should be led by the population and is not an Israeli war goal.
Strategic Political Banter?
Many attribute the discord in statements less to internal disagreements, with Katz being firmly on Netanyahu's side. During the Gaza war and later as defense minister, Katz vigorously supported Netanyahu's line, causing international outrage.
Israeli journalist Yaron Avraham from TV channel N12 sees the discord as a calculated tactic, with Netanyahu allowing Katz, Ben-Gvir, and Smotrich to speak freely, playing the roles of the "good cop" and "bad cop." Avraham suggests that Netanyahu may be purposely leaving the extreme rhetoric to others while remaining ambiguous about his true intentions.
If Netanyahu wished to, he could reportedly silence his ministers swiftly. It is noteworthy, therefore, that he allows them to speak openly. Avraham is unsure if this strategy is effective, stating, "If you want to shoot, shoot. Don't talk." Israel has done well with targeted killings of enemies like Hamas and Hezbollah leaders in the past, and Avraham suggests this strategy could continue to serve them well.
What is the purpose of Defense Minister Katz's aggressive rhetoric towards Iran in politics, general news, and war-and-conflicts, particularly regarding Ayatollah Ali Khamenei?Is the discord in statements between Netanyahu and Katz, along with other right-wing ministers, a strategic political banter, as suggested by Israeli journalist Yaron Avraham from TV channel N12?
