Netanyahu Replaces Chief of Staff Ziv Agmon Following Racist Remarks

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced the replacement of his acting chief of staff and spokesperson, Ziv Agmon, following a wave of backlash over derogatory comments made toward Jews of Middle Eastern descent. The decision comes after a brief period of hesitation from the Prime Minister, who initially attempted to retain Agmon despite the controversy.

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The Nature of the Derogatory Comments

The controversy erupted after leaked comments attributed to Ziv Agmon were made public. Agmon reportedly targeted Likud lawmakers of Mizrahi descent with racist language. Specifically, reports indicate that Agmon referred to Jews of Moroccan descent as “baboons,” and directed a particular slur at MK Eli Revivo, describing the lawmaker as a “retarded Moroccan.”

The remarks sparked immediate condemnation, as Mizrahi Jews—those originating from Middle Eastern and North African countries—represent a significant portion of the Israeli population and the Likud party’s base.

A Sudden Political U-Turn

The process of Agmon’s departure was not immediate, marked by a visible “U-turn” from the Prime Minister’s office. When the comments first surfaced, Agmon offered his resignation. However, Netanyahu initially rejected the resignation on Sunday evening, arguing that the state required “stability and functional continuity” during a period of serious challenges.

In a statement released by his office, Netanyahu claimed he had received an apology from Agmon and stated, “The remarks attributed to him should not have been said, and it is good that a clear apology was issued for them.” Netanyahu further defended his aide, asserting that he had never witnessed any signs of racism from Agmon and praised his professionalism and loyalty to the state.

This initial defense was met with fierce resistance from both the political opposition and within Netanyahu’s own party. Likud lawmakers expressed outrage that the Prime Minister would protect an aide who had insulted them. MK Eli Revivo reacted sharply to the decision, stating, “You cannot spit in our faces and share us it’s raining,” and argued that anyone who chose to keep Agmon in their circle effectively shared his views.

The Appointment of Edo Norden

Following the internal party rebellion and public pressure, Netanyahu reversed his position late Sunday, confirming that Agmon would be replaced in the coming days. According to reports from the Jerusalem Post, Edo Norden has been named as the replacement for the spokesperson and chief of staff role.

The transition follows a period of high visibility for Agmon, who had been seen accompanying the Prime Minister in Washington on February 12, 2026, and was active at the Knesset in Jerusalem as recently as February 23, 2026. His swift removal highlights the volatility of the current political climate and the intolerance for racist rhetoric within the governing coalition.

Key Takeaways

• The Cause: Ziv Agmon used racist slurs, including referring to Moroccan Jews as “baboons.”
• The Initial Reaction: Netanyahu initially defended Agmon, citing his loyalty and professionalism.
• The Turning Point: A “rare rebuke” from Likud lawmakers and the opposition forced a reversal.
• The Outcome: Agmon is being replaced by Edo Norden.

For more detailed coverage on the political fallout, readers can refer to reporting from The Times of Israel and Le Monde.

The next confirmed action is the formal transition of duties to Edo Norden in the coming days. We will continue to monitor the situation for further official updates.