Yair Lapid demands an investigation into alleged business ties between Netanyahu’s advisors and Qatar, following reports that they sought to improve Qatar’s image while working in the PMO. Concerns regarding national security and conflicts of interest have been raised by both Lapid and Golan, emphasizing the necessity of transparency and thorough inquiry into these connections.
Opposition leader MK Yair Lapid (Yesh Atid) has urged Attorney-General Gali Baharav-Miara to investigate purported business relationships between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s close advisors and Qatari officials. This follow-up came after a Channel 12 report highlighted Eli Feldstein, a member of Netanyahu’s media team, who is under house arrest for leaking classified documents, allegedly offered public relations services to Qatar while employed in the PMO.
Feldstein was reportedly hired by a Qatari-funded international company to enhance Qatar’s image in Israel, particularly regarding its involvement in hostage negotiations. Feldstein’s simultaneous association with the PMO raised concerns, as it created a misleading impression that his communications were from an official Israeli channel.
Moreover, earlier reports indicated that two other media team members, Yonatan Urich and Srulik Einhorn, were also engaged in PR work for Qatar ahead of the 2022 World Cup. Urich has been interrogated by the Israel Police regarding the leak, and Einhorn, residing in Europe, is wanted for questioning.
Lapid expressed his worry over the potentially harmful business connections with Qatar, stressing that these advisors could have prioritized profit over Israel’s global public relations. He asserted that a comprehensive investigation is necessary to address conflicts of interest that could jeopardize national security.
Democrats’ chairman Yair Golan joined the call for an investigation, highlighting alarming allegations that Netanyahu’s advisors received payments from Qatari companies linked to Hamas and extremist groups. Golan insisted that every financial transaction and contractual agreement be examined to ensure that national security decisions are made solely on the basis of Israel’s interests.
Additionally, the Movement for Quality Government in Israel has reached out to the Shin Bet head to demand a thorough investigation into these connections, reflecting the gravity of the situation and the public’s right to know the truth regarding national security matters.
Both Yair Lapid and Yair Golan have raised serious concerns regarding the alleged ties between Netanyahu’s aides and Qatari officials, calling for thorough investigations. The reports, if accurate, indicate possible conflicts of interest and national security risks, highlighting the need for transparency in the decision-making process. The public’s trust in the government hinges on uncovering the truth behind these allegations.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
