After criticism from both the opposition and his own party for keeping on his embattled spokesman and chief of staff Ziv Agmon, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said late Sunday that he will be replaced in the coming days.

Agmon had offered his resignation after his derogatory remarks about Likud lawmakers of Middle Eastern, or Mizrahi, descent were leaked to the press, but Netanyahu said earlier Sunday evening that he had apologized and would remain in his role until a replacement was found.

“I have received Ziv Agmon’s apology,” Netanyahu said in a statement released by his office. “The remarks attributed to him should not have been said, and it is good that a clear apology was issued for them.”

Israel “is facing serious challenges, and responsibility requires stability and functional continuity,” Netanyahu said, adding that he has never heard any racism from Agmon.

“Based on my deep familiarity with his work, professionalism, and loyalty to the state, I asked him to continue in his role until a suitable replacement is found,” said Netanyahu.

The announcement appeared to catch Likud lawmakers off guard, with several breaking rank and issuing a rare rebuke of the premier.

“You cannot spit in our faces and tell us it’s raining,” fumed MK Eli Revivo, who........

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