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.