Tuesday, April 7, 2026 - Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed his chief of staff, Ziv Agmon, following outrage over leaked remarks in which he allegedly made racist comments.
Announcing the decision, Netanyahu said Agmon would leave
his position in the coming days once his successor, Ido Norden, assumes office.
Agmon, who had been serving as acting chief of staff and
spokesperson, faced backlash after reports that he referred to Jews of Moroccan
descent using derogatory language, while also criticising members of the ruling
Likud party and the prime minister’s family.
The decision to remove him marks a reversal, as Netanyahu
had earlier indicated he wanted Agmon to remain in the role for the sake of
“stability and continuity.”
Norden’s appointment, however, has also drawn scrutiny.
Reports suggest he previously operated fake social media accounts to promote
his book on the “deep state,” in which he links Israel’s failure to prevent the
October 7, 2023 Hamas attack to hidden institutional forces.
His appointment is subject to vetting by Shin Bet, the
country’s domestic security agency. A lawyer and economist, Norden is also
known for leading a right-leaning think tank that advocates for greater
ideological diversity within Israel’s public sector.
The development adds to ongoing tensions within Netanyahu’s
inner circle, which has faced repeated controversies in recent months. Among
them is the case involving close ally Tzachi Braverman, who was reportedly
questioned by police over alleged interference in a leak investigation related
to the Gaza war.
The prime minister’s circle has also been under scrutiny in
the so-called “Qatargate” affair, involving allegations that former aides
received funds from Qatar to influence public perception during the conflict.
The latest dismissal highlights continued instability within
Netanyahu’s administration as it navigates political and public pressure.
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