Did Netanyahu Tip Off Military Strategy in Asking for Changes to His Personal Stock Portfolio?
- Posted on August 28, 2012 at 7:55am by
Sharona Schwartz
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Elected officials in Israel – including cabinet ministers and members of Knesset – are required to place their private investments in blind trusts. So when Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asked to make changes to his financial portfolio earlier this month, it raised eyebrows in Israel and got people asking: Is it a sign the prime minister is poised for a unilateral strike against Iranian nuclear facilities? Any military action would almost certainly impact international stock markets and thus affect the holdings of both citizens and politicians.
But just days after getting approval from the State Comptroller’s Office to tweak his financial holdings, Netanyahu rescinded the request. A statement from Netanyahu’s office explained he did “not to go forward with the matter in order to prevent the possibility of misinterpretation.”
Opposition politicians lined up to criticize Netanyahu’s move. The Times of Israel reports:
Opposition leader Shaul Mofaz (Kadima) on Monday called the prime minister’s request to change his portfolio “puzzling,” saying that the move showed “more than just a hint of his intentions.” Mofaz further said that the request showed how aware Netanyahu is of the security and economic risks involved in attacking Iran. […]
Labor party chair Shelly Yachimovich called Netanyahu’s portfolio request “obscene,” saying that even a child can understand that the prime minister is privy to sensitive security and economic intelligence that affects the stock market. Netanyahu himself, moreover, has the power to alter the world’s stock markets by dint of the decisions he takes, she said. If Netanyahu “has relevant information, he should be sharing it with the public,” she wrote on her Facebook page.
The Israeli media has been filled with speculation in recent weeks regarding if and when Netanyahu might decide to carry out an attack on Iran’s secret nuclear facilities. Most recently, Israel’s Channel 2 quoted sources close to Netanyahu saying that he and Defense Minister Ehud Barak have “almost finally” made their decision to attack Iran to try to stop – or at least slow down – its march toward nuclear weapons.
David Shimron, Netanyahu’s lawyer, insists the initial suggestion to alter the prime minister’s domestic and foreign investments was his idea, not the prime minister’s, and was prompted by “the shifts of the world economy.”
In a conference call with reporters, Shimron said:
[…]“From the prime minister‘s perspective it’s not a catastrophe if there’s a slight erosion in his portfolio, and if a new government is formed then that would be the appropriate time” to make the change to the protocol. If there‘s a need we’ll do it in the future, not now. The idea of a connection to Iran or to anything is pathetic,” he added.
In 2006, then IDF Chief of Staff Dan Halutz, faced public outrage after it was reported he had phoned his stock broker asking him to sell $28,000 in stocks just hours before the outbreak of war with Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Was Netanyahu’s request simply a cautious financial move or the sign of something more? Tell us what you think in comments below.
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Comments (52)
Xplorer
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 5:01pmWas this a test by Netanyahu to see how information and tips travel based on certain movements in his personal life?
Report Post »johnpaulkuchtajr
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 8:22pmBiBi is smart enough to know who‘s helping to paddle and who’s dragging anchor!
After he finishes his term in Israel, can we get him started on a path that allows him to hold office in the USA?
I’d say start him as Secretary of Defense; but, rename the damn department as it was originally named, Department of War. Under BiBi, you wouldn’t go to war unless our sovereignty is jeopardized; and, the objectives would be clear. No Iraq and Afghanistan. Rekindle Powell’s doctrines of overwhelming force and rid the services of the top twenty percent of officer ranks.
No more Nidal Hasan and official reports that “workplace violence” was at the core of the killings of 13 American heroes. We’re at war with Muslim jihadists. Period.
Report Post »Magyar
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 5:01pmOne thing is for certain–If and when Israel goes— there will only be one outcome for Iran.
The Israeli military power is something that most Americans cannot imagine because we’ve been led to believe that ONLY the United States has such might….. NOT SO!
Wait and watch……….
Report Post »jtav508
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 4:04pmMuslims have been fighting amongst themselves for thousands of years. They hate everyone who isn’t Muslim. They hate you they hate me. Their is no negotiating with them. All they know is violence and the only way to deal is through violence. I love those “Coexist” stickers. If you think about it the Islamist want the Jews, Christians, Atheist, Buddhist, and so on, dead if you don’t convert to Islam. We have to coexist with them, but they don’t have to coexist with us? Just take a look how they treat Jews and Christians in Muslim countries? But yet Liberals in this country for some reason stick up for the Islamist. Ajad and Kohmeni constantly threaten Isreal with annihilation and are developing the means to do so and people want Isreal to stand by and let this happen? Thats like have a crazy neighbor that says he is going to kill you. You call the police and they do nothing. So other neighbors say hey by the way, so and so just bought a gun and is going to kill you. You call the police and still nothing. You find out he’s trying to now buy bullets for this gun so he can kill you. You call the police yet again and they say, he’s just crazy leave him alone. Now left by yourself what do you do? Take action first or wait for him to kill you by then its too late?
Report Post »eric6161
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 2:12pmWhat I think is… It makes no difference what I think… that’s what I think
Report Post »Magyar
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 4:04pmLOL! Too damn funny!
Report Post »MT-Eman
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 1:39pmNetanyahu must be under incredible pressure to attack Iran or to wait a little longer. While it’s just a matter of when Israel will have to hit Iran at this point, timing is important, if he attacks Iran prior to the US elections, it is very likely that Obama will be re-elected, which would be terrible for both America and Israel in the long term. However, that needs to take a back seat if Israeli intelligence has evidence of an imminent attack prior to our elections. Either way, Israel is in a no win situation. I just pray Israel can wait until Romney is elected to be the new POTUS!!!
Report Post »sillyfreshness
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 2:15pmIt’s disgusting that someone who is going to alter the world economy is going to profit from it as a little side bonus. Did Bush buy up on military contractor stocks before he attacked Iraq? I doubt he did. So for Netanyahu to buy up or sell off stocks directly affected by his actions is disgusting. It’s okay for him to profit off his actions, but not anyone else. Now if he publicized his “stock portfolio” of Netanyahu’s daily stock pics, then that might be one thing, but he’s doing this all in secret to benefit him and his cronies.
Report Post »walnutportconservative
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 1:16pmAt some time during the end of this present age, there will be a massive invasion involving Islamic nations aligned with the country which today is called Russia. The attack will be against the nation Israel and the goal will be to annihilate God’s chosen nation. Before this goal can be accomplished the invading army will be supernaturally destroyed in a remarkable way that will bring glory to Jehovah. The details of this invasion are clearly revealed by the prophet Ezekiel in chapters 38-39.
Report Post »voting-for-romney
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 1:16pmLong term investments will always influence short term decisions? Anyone can change their stock portfolio on a given day, it takes a real pro to understand the details of long term investments?
Report Post »amazingphotos
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 12:47pmThe muslimes only respect strength. The proper response to 9-11 would have been to turn Mecca and Medina into glowing craters by 9-12. The pedophile “prophet” declared war on the entire world. For far too long the world has failed to return the favor.
Report Post »ThoreauHD
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 12:57pmThat’s correct.
Report Post »Cavy from VA
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 7:08pmExactly!!
TEA!!
Report Post »John 3:16
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 12:22pmIsrael is an American friend, and if they duke it out with Iran, let them, we just need to have their backs so that the other Muslim nations don’t try to make it an unfair fight and gang up on Israel like the cowards we all know they are. God will secure the Israeli victory. Nevertheless, we should never stand by and watch a gang war on Israel.
Report Post »walnutportconservative
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 1:21pmBlessed will be those who bless you and cursed those who curse you. That was the intent of the Abrahamic covenant I think. I don’t think America was mentioned by Ezekiel, but we must at least support Israel.
Report Post »MrKnowItAll
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 12:08pmPray you have or obtain the Fearless Existence Jewish people possess. Surrounded by Evil Killers, Islam using False Gods and fake Religion as a Front for Barbarism. Why cannot We as Americans forever BAN any group from calling themselves a religion. If it teaches inhuman deeds, murder, and anything except Peace. Would this be so hard to do? Or wrong in any way? No No No!
Report Post »Nations
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 11:45amI have fear that no matter who wins the election, Obama will usurp the power and nullify whomever is elected on our side. Obama will take over the nation via a plan that few of us are even capable of discerning. Evil has its ways to claiming power. Look how he was elected the time before. Hillary had the name and the record yet she was not elected due to all those dead folks voting for Obama. He has inserted himself over us and he will do so no matter who is voted into office. I hope I am wrong, but this is serious and few of us even know just how serious our plight will be six months from now.
Report Post »thegreatcarnac
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 11:26amIt is a well known secret that Israel has had nuclear weapons for years but have never used them. As soon as Iran developes them they will use them against Israel, even if it means their demise because the believe some tale about the “Mahdi” coming and saving them at the last moment. Israel cannot let Iran develope them…that is a fact of life.
Report Post »The_Jerk
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 11:37amThegreatcarnac: “As soon as Iran developes them they will use them against Israel, even if it means their demise.”
How do you know? How do semi-intelligent people make such foolish statements?
Report Post »tzion
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 12:05pm@Jerk
Report Post »Iran has not hesitated to provide terrorists with every means necessary to kill as many Israelis as possible. Would you trust them to draw the line at nukes? Why trust them at all considering how they sponsor terrorists calling for the US’s demise?
The_Jerk
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 11:14amIt sure fits the stereotype.
Report Post »reconmarine
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 11:42amYour username suits you well.
Report Post »Max jones
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 10:54amOur government has aligned itself with the forces of evil. Unfortunately, It represents us on the world stage. I am mortified.
Report Post »Nothing good comes of this. Israel knows this and are preparing for the worst case scenario. My scripture says that the abomination of Satan in white robes will stand in Jerusalem, claiming to be Christ. This tells me Israel is in for it.
We have been marginalized, and there is not one thing we can do about it. Our “Christian” leaders, one by one, are falling for the big lie. We have a white progressive running against a black progressive for the presidency. We have threats of violence, no matter who wins the election.
Wars and rumors of war…a flood of lies and a famine of truth. So, can any one tell me what time it is?
The_Jerk
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 11:39amThe force of evil is the Zionist state posing as the scriptural Israel.
Report Post »tzion
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 12:01pm@goebbelsthejerk
Report Post »How about propagandists who pose lies and half-truths as facts?
Southernguy
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 12:28pmUntil they figure out where to put the new Temple, I’d say you have a little time just yet ;)
Report Post »Deibido
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 10:46amObama is planning a new Federal Department if he is re-elected: He will, by Executive order create the “re-education department.” He expects to hire another 100,000 re-education specialists to increase employment. Nancy Pelosi will be Director of the New Department and Bawney Fwank will be Executive-at-Large, both reporting directly to Obama. The camps they have been building will then be put to use re-educating all those that disapprove of his policies and beliefs.
Psychotropic drugs, cattle prods, electric shock, water-boarding, and films of the socialists party of the world will be standard fare 18 hours a day. There will be chants the remaining six hours of each day – Hail Obama Master of the Realm, Truth Teller, and Divine Path-finder, All Hail to Obama! All those that cannot be corrected with these methods will have to then Chant endlessly: Barak Hussein Obama until they can speak no more… Hold thy tongue you republican peasant!
Report Post »Max jones
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 10:57amNice conspiracy theory there. but not near the truth of the matter. but i will put it my collection as maybe a 3 -3 1/2.
Report Post »affinity
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 9:46amThe financial controllers have already decided that the Jews will not move to a safe haven, such as the USA, to ensure world peace. A final Arab/Israeli war is imminent. Millions will die for no useful purpose. If your children are serving in the military this would be a good time to ask them to not reenlist or to resign their commissions and come home, ASAP. Be prepared.
Report Post »JRook
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 10:16amAnd something tells me he didn’t change them so he would loose money. Probably trading oil and gas futures.
Report Post »Max jones
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 10:59amOh, it is not for no purpose at all….To our minds it may look that way, but all of it has a purpose. This, I know.
Report Post »CatherineAnn
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 9:45amI was thinking about why he would want to do it before the election. This is what I came up with. If Obama wins he will not allow a strike and may even shoot down the Israel planes. Obama wants a nuclear Iran. If he does it before the election Obama’s hands will be tied to some extent because he will lose all the Jewish vote if he acts against Israel.If Romney is elected Israel will have a supporter but I think Netanyahu can’t take that chance.
Report Post »pwatkins
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 9:08amMay God bless the future of Israel and guide their hand whatever choices they have to make. I think Netanyahu will make wise decisions for his people.
Report Post »watersRpeople
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 9:03amIt’s kind of hard to hold onto wealth, secrecy, and security all at the same time.
Report Post »Landon410
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 9:03amlets just be honest here, if some neighboring country was launching rockets into our cities, we would have already “taken care” of it (unless it was mexico, in that case we would be sending htem the rockets to shoot at us)
Report Post »Isreal needs to do what they need to do, we are their ally need to support them however needed
Mutiny
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 8:36amIsrael has a right to protect itself. We do not need to fight their battles for them. When Israel follows God’s instructions they win. When they dont, they lose.
Report Post »barber2
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 9:03amDon’t you think they may be a bit outnumbered by the murdering nut jobs around them ? Know you do not believe in forming alliances. That can Always be a bad deal when the bigger enemy comes looking for smaller you …
Report Post »Wildblue3
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 9:14amBarber, The problem with alliances is that they can only be formed with people who respect you. The Arabs will never respect the Israelis. That’s the truth. They considers israelis zionists and mongrels. Israel can’t push an alliance in that enviroment.
Report Post »willbedone
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 9:41amBarber2. Israel is NEVER outnumbered when God is with them. Too many of ancient Israel’s battles prove this.
Report Post »pdw
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 10:23amNice thought let the bullies beat up the little and stand and watch! Now that is not what I would call Christian no matter how you say let them take care of themselves.
Report Post »Sharon Rose
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 8:22amI have a lot of respect for this brave man, Mr. Netanyahu. God bless him and Israel
Report Post »Escapee1
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 8:18amIsrael, we the people of the United States apologize for the lack of action against Iran by our present “leader”. We apologize for his lack of spine to take a harder line against these vile people who want to eradicate you from the planet. We apologize for the fact that you will probably have to go it alone if he is re-elected….Pray that in 70 days Americans will make the RIGHT choice and replace Mr. ObeyMe with a REAL leader who will support you in your efforts to STOP Iran from creating the weapons that it has promised to use against you….
Report Post »Individualism
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 8:00amIsrael can do what they want, as long as they don’t drag America into it. if they do we should boycott them to support our troops.
Report Post »pdw
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 10:27amAnd who will you turn to when they come after you and everyone knows they will. But we are farther down on their hate list but you and everyone here has heard them call us the Big Satan and must die. So this is what you believe is the answer to these bullies?
Report Post »Max jones
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 11:04amINDI…We shouldn’t have to be dragged into it …we should be leading it.
Report Post »Individualism
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 2:24pmPDW second amendment is there for you.
Report Post »Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 7:58amHere the real matter is of Iran gaining the bomb, and now the political figures are concerned over a stock matter; what about if Tel Aviv disappears under a blinding flash of manmade fire?
Report Post »AJAYW
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 8:23amSnow
Report Post »Obamaa’s plan is for Iran to get the bomb. Just like what he did in Egypt to help for the Islamists change. It all fits his plan of pulling the USA down to size..
barber2
Posted on August 28, 2012 at 9:00amAJ: agree. Part of Obama’s plan to redistribute power away fro the US and to fulfill those economic “ dreams ” of his Communist Kenyan father .
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