Benjamin Netanyahu Appoints Yossi Basaed as New Prime Minister's Bureau Chief
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has appointed Yossi Basaed as his bureau chief, following months of media speculation sparked by an incident at the Maccabiah Games involving Sara Netanyahu.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decided to appoint Yossi Basaed as his bureau chief. The decision follows a media storm surrounding Basaed after an incident at the Maccabiah Games opening ceremony at Jerusalem's Teddy Stadium, which involved the Prime Minister's wife, Sara Netanyahu.
During the opening ceremony of the 22nd Maccabiah Games in July, an incident drew widespread media attention. According to reports and eyewitness accounts, Sara Netanyahu was angered by the VIP entrance arrangements, claiming she was not escorted properly and was pushed during the crowding.
Reports indicated that the Prime Minister's wife vented her frustration at her husband and staff members, including Basaed and another advisor, Nebo Katz. Basaed reportedly broke into tears following the event, leading to speculation that he had lost his standing within the inner circle.
While the reports raised questions about Basaed's future in the Prime Minister's Office, he denied being dismissed and maintained that his relations with the Netanyahu family remained strong.
Joint Denial and Legal Action
Following the reports, Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife issued a joint statement refuting claims that Sara Netanyahu had ordered the advisor's dismissal.
"Last week, several media outlets reported that Prime Minister's Office advisor Yossi Basaed was dismissed by Mrs. Netanyahu. Weeks ago, Yossi asked to conclude his tenure for personal reasons entirely unrelated to any specific event. The Prime Minister and his wife deeply appreciate him, thank him for his substantial contribution, and will maintain warm relations. Yossi Basaed announced he will file a defamation lawsuit against the spreaders of these falsehoods—and rightly so."
