Shin Bet is investigating potential ties between Netanyahu’s advisors and Qatar, prompted by MK Gilad Kariv’s request. Knesset members are demanding investigations into all relevant staff and raising alarms about conflicts of interest involving foreign relations. Netanyahu’s office has responded by denouncing the accusations as false, asserting political bias in the agency’s actions.
Israel’s internal security agency, Shin Bet, has initiated an investigation into potential relationships between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s close advisors and Qatar. The inquiry comes after a request from MK Gilad Kariv, highlighting concerns about connections involving high-ranking officials within the prime minister’s office, referred to as ‘protected persons.’ Knesset members have called for investigations into all staff in contact with Qatar, urging that Netanyahu should also be scrutinized.
In response to the investigation, Netanyahu’s office issued a statement alleging that Shin Bet is engaging in selective enforcement. The statement categorically denied the accusations against Netanyahu’s advisors, branding them as “fake news.” This comes following reports that Eli Feldstein, the former spokesman for Netanyahu, was allegedly compensated by Doha to disseminate pro-Qatar narratives among leading Israeli journalists and share military intelligence with Qatar.
Knesset members expressed serious concerns regarding conflicts of interest, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation. They questioned whether individuals with financial ties to foreign nations should manage critical security matters. The inquiry aims to determine if Netanyahu was aware of these connections and whether he may have received funds, either directly or indirectly.
Israel currently maintains no diplomatic relations with Qatar, which is known to host the leadership of Hamas. Tensions have escalated, particularly following a ceasefire agreement on January 15, after Israel’s failure to fulfill its war objectives against Hamas, coupled with the ongoing conflict with Palestinian resistance groups. The situation remains complex as negotiations unfold against this backdrop of strained relations.
The Shin Bet’s investigation into Netanyahu’s office raises significant questions about the potential implications of foreign influence on Israeli governance. As allegations of financial connections with Qatar emerge, both Netanyahu and his top advisors are under scrutiny. This situation highlights the delicate nature of Israel’s foreign relations, particularly with countries like Qatar, amidst ongoing regional tensions and conflicts within the Israeli-Palestinian context.
Original Source: www.presstv.ir
