On February 28, 2025, Israel’s attorney general launched a criminal investigation into possible illicit ties between Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office and Qatar amidst national security concerns. The inquiry will be conducted by police and domestic security agency Shin Bet, following suspicions raised about sensitive information compromise. The investigation comes after media reports suggested business connections involving Netanyahu’s advisers and Qatar, with one former spokesman facing charges for leaking classified information.
On February 28, 2025, Israel’s attorney general announced the initiation of a criminal investigation concerning potential questionable connections between officials in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office and the State of Qatar. This development arises amid increasing concerns regarding national security related to these interactions.
Qatar has played a critical role in mediating ceasing hostilities between Israel and Hamas and aiding in the release of Israeli hostages. However, it is noteworthy that Israel and Qatar do not share formal diplomatic relations despite these cooperative efforts.
Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara stated that the inquiry will involve both the police and the Shin Bet domestic security agency. This decision is a response to Shin Bet’s findings regarding contact between senior officials in Netanyahu’s office and representatives from Qatar, which has raised concerns about the potential compromise of sensitive information.
Baharav-Miara also mentioned that her decision followed insights presented during a meeting earlier that day, which revealed troubling connections between individuals in the Prime Minister’s Office and entities associated with Qatar. This inquiry is set against the backdrop of recent media reports suggesting alleged business relationships between Qatari officials and advisers to Netanyahu.
In November 2024, Eli Feldstein, a former spokesman for Netanyahu, was charged with leaking classified documents in an attempt to disrupt negotiations regarding hostages held by Hamas. The investigation also scrutinizes advisers Yonatan Urich and Yisrael Einhorn, who have been linked to these purported ties with Qatar.
The criminal inquiry into Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office highlights serious allegations involving Qatar, raising critical national security issues. This investigation, spearheaded by Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, reflects a proactive stance towards ensuring the integrity of governmental operations. The outcomes of this probe may significantly impact both domestic politics and Israel’s foreign relations with Qatar.
Original Source: www.dimsumdaily.hk
