In a troubling development, Sara Netanyahu, the wife of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is being sued by a former employee, Rami Ben Hamo, who alleges that she referred to him as an "undeveloped Moroccan". This accusation is part of a broader lawsuit that highlights claims of mistreatment, including excessive working hours and humiliating tasks such as cleaning the soles of her shoes with wet wipes. Ben Hamo, who dedicated over a decade of service in the prime minister's office and residence, seeks approximately £112,000 in compensation, asserting that the alleged ethnic slurs and unreasonable demands persisted even after he underwent heart surgery.
The allegations come at a particularly sensitive moment for Benjamin Netanyahu, as he prepares for the upcoming general election. His main rival, Gadi Eisenkot, comes from a Moroccan-Jewish background, which adds a layer of complexity to the political landscape. The Mizrahi community, which encompasses Jews from the Middle East, traditionally aligns with Israel's working class, in stark contrast to the more elite Ashkenazi families like the Netanyahus. Polls indicate that Eisenkot, with his relatable backstory and straightforward persona, may significantly attract voters from this demographic, potentially undermining Netanyahu's political base.
Ben Hamo's lawsuit is not an isolated incident; it follows other allegations from former employees who have accused Mrs. Netanyahu of abusive behavior. Another ex-employee, Yehiel Ohev-Ami, has also filed a lawsuit, claiming he was verbally and physically assaulted while working in the prime minister's residence. Ohev-Ami's accusations are alarming, including claims that Mrs. Netanyahu would push him against walls and verbally abuse him, even wishing illness upon him. He asserts that his spirit was broken after being subjected to her demands and insults, with instances of her purportedly diagnosing him with autism and demanding payment for the diagnosis.
In response to these serious allegations, the prime minister's office has dismissed the claims as "fake news" and part of a continuous smear campaign against the Netanyahu family, particularly during election periods. This ongoing situation raises questions not only about Mrs. Netanyahu’s conduct but also about the broader implications for the Netanyahu political dynasty as they navigate a challenging electoral environment.
As reported by yahoo.com.
