Former Israeli Minister suggested Mubarak seek asylum in Eilat

Israel’s former Industry, Trade and Labor Minister, Binyamin Ben-Eliezer, has told Army Radio that he suggested his long-time friend, Hosni Mubarak, seek asylum in Eilat, well before Egypt’s deposed leader was forced to step down due to an uprising.

Ben-Eliezer, who in his former post, had many dealings with Mubarak, made the comments on Wednesday, August 3.

Mubarak reportedly rejected Ben-Elizer’s suggestion –made while Mubarak was still president, during a meeting in Sharm el-Sheikh.

"I met him in Sharm el-Sheikh and told him that the distance was very short, and perhaps this would be a good time for him to heal himself," Ben-Eliezer said. "I am sure the Israeli government would have accepted him, but he refused because he is a patriot."

In fact, according to Ben-Eliezer, Mubarak, even when the uprising hit a fever pitch, would not even consider leaving Egypt, saying, “I will die in Egypt.”

Egyptians “turn their backs to him during this painful hour,” Ben-Eliezer said. “The Middle East after Mubarak will be completely different. He was one of the leaders who was able to keep the stability in the Middle East [and] was entirely committed to the peace process with the Palestinians in Israel.”

Mubarak, who is suffering from heart issues and cancer, arrived, on a stretcher, for his trial for murder and corruption, on August 3rd.