Deri’s J’Accuse

You contend that Israeli and American Jews are fomenting delegitimization of Israel in Washington. Can you provide specific names? And is this issue being discussed within the Israeli government?

“That conversation isn’t taking place in official venues, but those in the know will understand what I’m talking about. I do know names of people involved, both here and in the US.”

Including Israeli politicians currently serving?

“Yes, sadly. A significant element in the opposition has acted to prevent Netanyahu from going to Washington. They see it as part of their struggle to bring him down, to portray him as the cause of the crisis.”

After the High Court disqualified him from serving as minister, Deri was invited to continue participating in meetings of the security cabinet as an observer, but after one or two meetings, Deri decided to forgo the pleasure. When we asked him why he doesn’t attend the meetings, despite the fact that security officials want him there as a counterbalance to certain ministers, he replied: “I’m not an observer. Either I have responsibilities or I don’t, but I’m not sitting on the sidelines. I continue to contribute and influence on critical issues.”

And if there’s one area where he feels his help is needed, it’s US-Israel relations, which have seemingly gone over the edge. As someone who speaks to Netanyahu regularly and receives constant updates from Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and the PM’s military secretary, Deri emphasizes that military cooperation has not been impacted.