Benjamin Netanyahu: A Profile

Early Life and Political Beginnings

Benjamin Netanyahu was born in Tel Aviv in 1949 and grew up in Jerusalem. His father, Ben-Zion Netanyahu, was a renowned historian and political activist, and his mother, Tzila Netanyahu, was a lawyer. Netanyahu was educated at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Harvard University, where he studied political science.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Netanyahu became involved in Israeli politics as a member of the Likud party. He held various cabinet positions, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, before becoming Prime Minister for the first time in 1996.

Prime Minister of Israel

Netanyahu has served as Prime Minister of Israel three times: from 1996 to 1999, 2009 to 2013, and 2015 to present. During his time in office, he has overseen a number of significant developments, including the Oslo Accords, the withdrawal from Gaza, and the construction of the West Bank barrier.

Netanyahu is a controversial figure in Israeli politics. His supporters praise him as a strong leader who has kept Israel safe, while his critics accuse him of being divisive and of undermining democratic institutions.

Personal Life

Netanyahu is married to Sara Netanyahu, and they have three children. He is a keen sportsman and enjoys reading and playing chess.