Benjamin Netanyahu: Israel's Longest-Serving and Most Right-Wing Prime Minister

Early Life and Military Service

Benjamin Netanyahu was born on October 21, 1949, in Tel Aviv, Israel. He joined the Israeli military as a paratrooper, eventually becoming an elite officer and fighting in several wars.

Netanyahu earned a degree in architecture and urban planning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology before returning to Israel. In 1976, he was elected to the Likud party's leadership.

Political Career

Netanyahu began his political career in 1988 when he was appointed Israel's ambassador to the United Nations. He later served as Minister of Finance and Foreign Minister. In 1996, Netanyahu became Israel's youngest Prime Minister at age 47. He negotiated the Oslo Accords, which established the Palestinian Authority, but the accords were met with skepticism and protests.

Corruption Allegations

Netanyahu has been embroiled in several corruption scandals throughout his career. He is currently being investigated for bribery, fraud, and breach of trust.

Domestic and Foreign Policies

Netanyahu has been a polarizing figure in Israeli politics. He has supported the construction of West Bank settlements, which has drawn criticism from the international community. He has also taken a hard line against terrorism, launching military operations in Gaza and the West Bank. Netanyahu has also worked to strengthen Israel's diplomatic ties with the United States and other countries.

Legacy

Benjamin Netanyahu is Israel's longest-serving and most right-wing Prime Minister. Loved and loathed in equal measure, he has had a profound impact on both Israel and the Middle East.