In a controversial turn of events, Benjamin Netanyahu's son, Yair Netanyahu, has faced criticism from Israeli reservists for remaining in Miami, Florida, rather than joining the fight against Hamas. The 32-year-old had moved to the US earlier this year after being successfully sued for defamation in Israel. The defamation suit was a result of Yair's social media posts against political activist Dana Cassidy, whom he falsely alleged was in a relationship with politician Benny Gantz.

The tensions in the region have escalated dramatically since the deadly attack on Israel launched by Hamas fighters from Gaza on 7 October. This attack left over 1,400 civilians and soldiers dead, and hundreds more were taken hostage. In response, around 360,000 reservists have been called up in Israel, preparing for an expected ground assault on the Palestinian enclave. However, Yair's absence from his homeland during this critical time has sparked outrage among the reservists.

Reservists from Israel's northern front have expressed their dismay at Yair's decision to stay in Miami while they put their lives on the line. One reservist, speaking to London's The Times, criticized Yair, saying, "Yair is enjoying his life at Miami Beach while I'm on the front lines. It's us who are leaving our work, our families, our kids, to protect our families back home and the country, not the people who are responsible for this situation. Our brothers, our fathers, sons, are all going to the front line, but Yair is still not here. It does not help build trust in the leadership of the country."

The reservists' sentiments were echoed by others who have made significant sacrifices to return to Israel from various parts of the world. One such reservist, who had to leave his job, family, and life in the United States, expressed his disappointment, stating, "There is no way I can stay there and abandon my country, my people, at this critical time. Where is the prime minister's son? Why isn't he in Israel? It is the most uniting moment for us as Israelis in our recent history, and every single one of us should be here right now, including the prime minister's son."

Meanwhile, Yair Netanyahu has made headlines for his involvement in sorting donated supplies for IDF soldiers and Israeli families impacted by the Israel-Hamas war. On October 17, he volunteered with the NGO Yedidim USA in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to support the Israeli cause. This act further fueled the controversy surrounding his decision to remain in Miami.

It's important to note that Israel's armed forces rely heavily on reservists who have completed their national service and can be called upon until the age of 40. While most reservists are based in Israel, some, like those interviewed by The Times, have flown from countries around the world to fulfill their duty.

Yair Netanyahu's defamation case and subsequent relocation to Florida have raised questions about his commitment to his country during this challenging period. The court's ruling against him, ordering him to pay Danna Cassidy $34,000 in compensation and $6,000 in legal costs, further underscores the consequences of his actions.

As the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to intensify, the absence of the prime minister's son and the reservists' criticism of his decision to stay in Miami have added an unexpected twist to the ongoing crisis. The controversy surrounding Yair Netanyahu's absence from Israel during this crucial time threatens to undermine trust in the country's leadership and further divide public opinion.