Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been shortlisted for Time magazine’s Person of the Year, a decision that has provoked widespread backlash due to his controversial record. Critics cite his alleged responsibility for the deaths of 44,758 Palestinians, repeated attacks on healthcare facilities in Gaza, and military campaigns in Lebanon, Iran, and Syria.
This recognition, which Time awards annually to the individual or group deemed to have had the most significant impact—positively or negatively—on the world, has previously included polarizing figures such as Adolf Hitler (1938) and Elon Musk (2021).
Palestinian journalist Hamza Yousuf condemned Netanyahu's inclusion, stating, “The man who said he will turn Gaza into rubble and did precisely that. What a sick world.” Amnesty International has also accused Netanyahu’s government of committing genocide in Gaza, emphasizing the systematic destruction of Palestinian lives and infrastructure.
Time’s justification highlights Netanyahu’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza following the October 7 Hamas attacks that killed 1,200 Israelis. The magazine notes, “Defying criticism of his war on Hamas, the terrorist organization... Netanyahu continued his military assault on the Gaza Strip.” Critics argue this framing downplays the humanitarian toll of his actions and lends a veneer of heroism to what they describe as war crimes.
In Israel, Netanyahu faces significant domestic opposition, with 72% of Israelis calling for his resignation over his handling of the October 7 attacks, according to a Channel 12 poll. He also faces corruption charges, including allegations of bribery and fraud.
The omission of Palestinian nominees from the Time shortlist has drawn additional ire. Figures like journalist Bisan Owda, who has tirelessly documented life in Gaza under bombardment, and humanitarian activists have been overlooked. Critics point out that Palestinian photojournalist Motaz Azaiza and food blogger Hamada Shaqoura were featured in other Time lists earlier this year but were excluded from the Person of the Year consideration.
The controversy extends to broader issues of representation. Of the ten nominees, only two are people of color, raising questions about diversity in Time’s selection process.
Netanyahu joins a shortlist that includes other influential figures such as Elon Musk, Kamala Harris, Mark Zuckerberg, Joe Rogan, and Mexico’s first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum. Whether Time’s decision will amplify Netanyahu’s narrative or further highlight global opposition to his policies remains to be seen.
(Source: DAWN)
BD-Pratidin English/Mazdud
