Naama Lazimi, a member of the Labor party, raised the issue during a parliament budget meeting, questioning why taxpayers continue to cover Yair’s security costs—roughly 2.5 million shekels ($680,000) yearly—if he remains abroad. She suggested the funding might be linked to his reported “disrespect” toward state authority.
Netanyahu’s Likud party denied the claims as “disgusting lies” and threatened legal action, calling the accusation politically motivated. Lazimi also challenged the use of public money for the prime minister’s wife, Sara Netanyahu, during her recent two-month trip overseas.
Yair Netanyahu left Israel in 2023 amid political turmoil, including protests over his father’s controversial policies. Initially reported to live in Puerto Rico, he later moved to a guarded compound near Miami. His lawyers say he stays abroad due to “persecution” in Israel, making a “normal life” impossible. They deny all allegations of wrongdoing, framing his situation as part of broader political attacks on the Netanyahu family.
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions over government spending and accountability in Israel, where the Netanyahu family’s lifestyle and legal battles remain contentious. Critics argue public funds should not support personal expenses, while supporters dismiss the scrutiny as partisan opposition. As legal challenges continue, the case underscores deeper divides over power, privilege, and transparency in Israeli politics.