In hot mic moment, ministers can’t believe Netanyahu’s ‘luck’

The Knesset Channel news airs a hot mic segment in which Transportation Minister Israel Katz (Likud) and Interior Minister Aryeh Deri banter about Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s “luck” in his police investigations.

They are apparently referring to a text message leaked last night that appeared to show one of the investigators in one of the cases involving Netanyahu coordinating remand extensions with a judge before the hearing.

The airing of the text message prompted a backlash against the investigation, with some Netanyahu allies saying it shored up claims the deck is stacked against the prime minister.

“How much luck does Bibi have? How much luck? Tell me, how much luck?” says Deri in the recording, seemingly amazed.

“Yes,” Katz replies.

“It’s something else,” Deri says, giggling.

They both agree that Netanyahu’s luck is “unbelievable,” and then Katz says, “Yalla, we’re in favor.”

“I appeared [on the news] on Saturday night. I backed him up,” Katz says, leaning closer to Deri and covering his mouth so the camera won’t catch his lip movements.

“I also appeared on Saturday night and supported [him], but look at that luck!” Deri exclaims.

You can watch the full exchange (Hebrew), which took place during a birthday celebration for Deri, here:

ועכשיו עם הסרטון.
שיחה בין השרים כ"ץ ודרעי על הוואטספים בפרשת 4000 כפי נקלטה במיקרופון ערוץ הכנסת. pic.twitter.com/MyKZZQfbho

— Yanir Cozin – יניר קוזין (@yanircozin) February 26, 2018