Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, on Wednesday attacked what he called a “deep state,” which he claimed was trying to remove him from power. He also insisted that Israel would “remain” a democracy.
In his speech to the Knesset, Netanyahu said that opponents “sowed anarchy on the streets” following the anti-government demonstrations in response to the resumption of strikes in Gaza.
Netanyahu said, “You keep repeating the same tired and absurd slogans about the ‘end of democracy. Let’s be clear: Democracy isn’t in danger. It is the power of bureaucrats.”
“Perhaps, you could stop throwing wrenches in the works of government during a war?” Maybe you could stop fueling sedition, hate, and anarchy on the streets?”
In recent days, tens of thousands of Israelis have taken part in anti-government demonstrations. Former Supreme Court Chief Justice has warned about civil war. Experts say a constitutional crisis is possible if Israel moves forward with plans to dismiss top security and legal officials.
Last week, Netanyahu fired Ronen Bar, head of Shin Bet’s internal security service. He cited a crisis in confidence caused by Hamas attacks on Oct. 7, 2023. The government of Netanyahu has launched a process for dismissing the Attorney General, accusing her of obstructing their agenda.
The Shin Bet is currently investigating the possibility of an Arab country infiltrating Netanyahu’s office, and Netanyahu is being tried for corruption.
