As the new school year begins in Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, nearing 77 and in office for nearly two decades, has stirred controversy with a recent video drawing a parallel between political opposition to his leadership and the social ostracism experienced by a child named Yuval in fourth grade. Critics argue that Netanyahu’s comparison minimizes genuine bullying and exploits the plight of children facing violence in schools by casting himself as a victim amid growing political challenges.

The video marks the latest instance in which Netanyahu has positioned himself as being unfairly targeted. Some analysts link this narrative to his declining poll numbers, which are prompting efforts to form a broad coalition government. Others suggest the behavior reflects a deeper, personal proclivity toward victimhood despite his long-standing tenure and responsibility for the country’s trajectory.

This is not the first time Netanyahu has employed such rhetoric. In 2023, at the start of the school year, he minced little words when children were given bracelets to discourage ostracism, questioning why similar reminders were not extended to adults. In the aftermath of the October 7 massacre last year, Netanyahu framed public demands for accountability as a form of boycott, sustaining the theme of victimhood despite widespread criticism of his handling of security and governance.

The tendency to adopt a defenseless posture is also evident within the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Officials frequently describe the security situation in the West Bank as precarious and seemingly beyond their control amid rising settler violence, which includes attacks on Palestinian villages involving arson, beatings, and forced expulsions. Military leaders often express frustration at what they characterize as inadequate law enforcement by the police. They warn that continued aggression could soon escalate into broader violence, yet the IDF is seen by some as failing to take decisive action to prevent or respond to these incidents.

This portrayal of both the prime minister and the security establishment as victims facing enormous external pressures has drawn criticism for obscuring issues of responsibility. Observers note that the political and military leadership often adopt a narrative of innocence, casting themselves as powerless “omnipotent victims” who shape reality through force but depict events as predetermined or imposed by external forces. Such framing undermines public discourse on accountability and governance.

As Israeli children return to classrooms today, they are encouraged to oppose bullying and demonstrate responsibility toward others. Yet the prevailing narrative from the country’s political and security leadership emphasizes victimhood, raising concerns about the lessons being imparted about power, accountability, and conflict in Israeli society.