Netanyahu acknowledges "Armenian genocide" for first time Video

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has, for the first time, acknowledged what is referred to as the “Armenian genocide” in the Ottoman Empire.

In an interview with American podcaster Patrick Bet-David, Netanyahu said he recognised the events, responding to a suggestion from his interviewer that Israel might formally acknowledge the atrocities, Caliber.Az reports.

BREAKING!

Prime Minister @Netanyahu OFFICIALLY recognizes the Armenian, Assyrian & Greek genocide committed by the Ottoman Empire. pic.twitter.com/fLtsr41YRy

— Patrick Bet-David (@patrickbetdavid) August 26, 2025

Netanyahu added that, in his view, “the Knesset passed the relevant resolution.”

However, contrary to Netanyahu’s statement, the Knesset has not officially recognised the so-called “Armenian genocide.”

Since 2011, the Israeli parliament has periodically debated the issue in plenary sessions and various committees. These discussions, often led by politicians Zehava Gal-On and Aryeh Eldad and supported by former Knesset Speaker Reuven Rivlin, have been largely symbolic and do not constitute formal recognition.

Political analysts have suggested that Netanyahu’s remarks could heighten tensions in Israel’s relations with Türkiye.

By Aghakazim Guliyev