The Qatar-Gate scandal sees two individuals detained over alleged Qatari payments to Netanyahu’s office. Netanyahu denies wrongdoing, comparing the situation to political tactics in the U.S. amid a 30-day gag order restricting details. Former PM Bennett accuses him of treason for allowing Qatari influence. Investigations are underway, but details remain sparse due to legal constraints.
The “Qatar-Gate” controversy escalated recently as Israeli police detained two individuals linked to alleged financial transactions between the Qatari government and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office. Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing, asserting in a statement that similar tactics against right-wing leaders exist in both Israel and the U.S., referencing allegations aimed at Donald Trump. This post was subsequently removed but then reappeared on Netanyahu’s personal account.
Details of the case are restricted by a 30-day gag order, with police refraining from disclosing more information. The scrutiny intensified after businessman Gil Birger acknowledged transferring Qatari funds to Eli Feldstein, a Netanyahu spokesperson, raising questions about foreign influence in Israeli politics. Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett strongly criticized Netanyahu, suggesting that either he knowingly allowed Qatari infiltration, which he termed treason, or was unaware of it, implying a serious breach of security.
Bennett pointed out that a senior adviser in Netanyahu’s office was allegedly paid by Qatar, highlighting the concerning financial connections, especially given Qatar’s known support for Hamas. In response, Netanyahu’s office dismissed the allegations as “baseless fake news,” characterizing the situation as a misguided attempt to create a crime where none exists.
A gag order is currently in place, obstructing the release of critical information pertaining to ongoing police investigations. Major Israeli news organizations are advocating for the lifting of this order, with a court hearing scheduled regarding the matter. Reports indicate that Feldstein, who did not pass a security clearance, was not paid through usual methods but instead received funds from Qatari sources funneled through several intermediaries.
The investigation has widened to include Jonathan Urich, a Netanyahu supporter, who is accused of facilitating the financial interactions. Urich’s legal representation denies any involvement, asserting he was unaware of Birger or any potential payment arrangements. The Attorney General’s Office has directed Shin Bet and the police to fully investigate the potential implications of Qatar’s influence on Netanyahu’s government.
The developing “Qatar-Gate” investigation highlights serious allegations regarding foreign financial influence in Israeli politics, particularly within Netanyahu’s administration. The ongoing police inquiry remains shrouded in secrecy due to a gag order, while both sides exchange accusations. As political scrutiny intensifies, the implications of these allegations may significantly impact public trust and governance in Israel.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
