While I happen to agree with the criticism that it is disrespectful, inappropriately dismissive and wrong for the Prime Minister to not participate, I also happen to think there is no actual good decision and somehow at the same time it also is understandable and ok.

The Rabin Memorial, aka the annual Rabinfest, coming up in less than a month, has become a festival of hate and anger, directed at the Right in general but specifically at Netanyahu. Yes, as Prime Minister, he should just sit there and let them get their frustrations out and he should show his respect with his participation and restraint.

However, it is perfectly understandable that he has had enough. he has done this many times before, and has had enough of the hate and anger and derision directed at him at this ceremony. And this year, with the protest movement in full swing, all that anger and hate and verbal attacks will surely be turned up a notch or three.

Further, if they don't want him there, and if they think he doesnt deserve to be there (both because of what they accuse him of from Rabin's days as PM, along with considering him an illegitimate PM to a certain extent because of his ongoing trials), don't criticize him for not going. You can't have it both ways.