Full Breakdown
Former Prime Minister Ehud Barak Slams Netanyahu Family Over October 7 Remarks
9/2/2026, 1:07:50 AM
Barak’s Public Critique
Former prime minister Ehud Barak condemned remarks made by Sara Netanyahu to Channel 14, in which she questioned why Defense Minister Yair Golan arrived at the October 7 scene early and in uniform. Barak framed the comment as echoing a conspiracy theory that Golan had prior knowledge of the war’s outbreak. He linked the episode to broader concerns about Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s conduct, warning that the premier would use any means to avoid losing the upcoming election and that his policies, in Barak’s view, effectively aid Hamas.
Political Background
Barak, a former defense minister and two-time candidate for prime minister, has remained an outspoken critic of the current government. He has participated in protests against the judicial overhaul and has previously visited wounded soldiers, including Golan when the latter was injured as a battalion commander. Barak’s recent comments come amid ongoing tensions over the war’s objectives and the political future of Netanyahu’s coalition.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I say this personally, she needs professional evaluation and perhaps compassion,” — Ehud Barak, former prime minister
- “ "He is deathly afraid of a state commission of inquiry," Barak said.” — Ehud Barak, former prime minister
- “He does not operate according to slogans or stereotypes; he does what needs to be done," Barak said in praise of Segalovitz.” — Ehud Barak, former prime minister
Impact and Outlook
Barak’s statements amplify internal criticism of Netanyahu’s leadership and hint at potential legal and political challenges ahead. By portraying the prime minister as desperate to avoid accountability, Barak suggests that forthcoming inquiries could reshape Israel’s political landscape, especially if they affect Netanyahu’s ability to campaign or travel. The remarks also underscore the fraught relationship between senior officials and the families of political leaders, raising questions about how personal conduct may influence public policy and electoral prospects.
