DR ‹ › Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced late Sunday that his spokesman and chief of staff, Ziv Agmon, will be replaced in the coming days, following backlash over derogatory remarks that included an insult targeting a Moroccan-origin lawmaker, The Times of Israel reported on Monday. Agmon had initially offered his resignation after his comments about Likud lawmakers of Middle Eastern (Mizrahi) descent were leaked, notably referring to MK Eli Revivo as a «retarded Moroccan». Netanyahu first said he would remain in his post after issuing an apology, citing the need for stability, before reversing his decision amid mounting criticism. «I have received Ziv Agmon's apology. The remarks attributed to him should not have been said», Netanyahu said, while initially defending his professionalism and loyalty. The remarks sparked strong reactions within Netanyahu's own party, with lawmakers denouncing the comments and rejecting the idea of keeping him in office even temporarily. Opposition leader Yair Lapid also weighed in, accusing Netanyahu of tolerating racism within his office. Following the backlash, Netanyahu confirmed that Agmon's replacement, Ido Norden, who previously worked at the Bank of Israel and the Israel Innovation Authority, is already in the onboarding process and is expected to take up the role shortly.
