Netanyahu. Photo: Depositphotos
The investigation into the leak of classified documents is gaining momentum after it emerged that one of the defendants had repeatedly contacted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before the materials disappeared.
According to the Israeli portal Walla, the radio station Kan Reshet Bet published a recording of a conversation in which a well-known businessman admits that he transferred money to a lobbyist for the Qatari government through the then press secretary of the Prime Minister Eli Feldstein.
The recording caused a political outcry
The publication of the recording provoked a strong reaction among politicians and the public. Feldstein’s lawyers initially claimed that the money he received was a temporary and partial decision made by Netanyahu’s office. At the same time, they hinted at the involvement of the prime minister’s adviser, Yonatan Urich.
It is known that Feldstein discussed secret documents with the Prime Minister at least twice, which were later published in the German newspaper Bild. After their publication, an international scandal erupted, as the published materials contained confidential information.
Netanyahu denies involvement
At the moment, Prime Minister Netanyahu denies any involvement in the leaked documents. The Prime Minister’s Office has so far refrained from commenting.
Financial trail leads to Qatar
Feldstein’s lawyers emphasise that during his time as security spokesman, he actually received payment from Qatar. According to them, the financial chain was organised by employees of Netanyahu’s office, and the key role in the transfer of funds was played by the prime minister’s adviser, Yonatan Urich.
The investigation is ongoing, and it remains to be seen whether this scandal will affect the political situation in Israel and the future of Netanyahu himself.
