The “Qatar-Gate” controversy escalated as police arrested two suspects linked to alleged Qatari payments to Netanyahu’s office. Netanyahu’s statement compared the situation to political probes against Trump, while former PM Naftali Bennett voiced accusations of potential treason. A gag order restricts further details on this investigation.
The controversy surrounding the so-called “Qatar-Gate” intensified this week when police detained two suspects linked to alleged payments from the Qatari government to personnel in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office. This development has reignited scrutiny over financial relationships between Qatari officials and Israeli leaders, amidst ongoing investigations into the matter.
In the aftermath of the arrests, an official post from Netanyahu’s office compared the situation to similar political investigations faced by former President Donald Trump. The statement indicated that in both the United States and Israel, the justice system is being weaponized by a so-called “leftist Deep State” against strong right-wing leaders. Although the post was initially removed, it later reappeared on Netanyahu’s personal social media account.
The police have restricted information about the ongoing investigation due to a 30-day gag order, and Netanyahu has not publicly addressed the detentions. The scrutiny was heightened after it was revealed that Israeli businessman Gil Birger admitted to facilitating payments from a Qatari lobbyist to Eli Feldstein, a spokesperson in Netanyahu’s office.
In summary, the ongoing “Qatar-Gate” investigation raises serious concerns about potential foreign influence within the Israeli government. Allegations of financial transfers involving Qatari officials and Netanyahu’s aides have provoked strong reactions, including accusations from former leaders. While Netanyahu adamantly denies the allegations, the situation is complex and may lead to significant political ramifications as investigations proceed.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
