Netanyahu Slams ‘Qatar-Gate’ Probe as a ‘Witch Hunt’ After Aides’ Arrests

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has fiercely condemned an ongoing investigation into alleged ties between his close aides and Qatar, branding it a “political witch hunt” after providing testimony to police on Monday.

The probe, dubbed “Qatar-gate,” has led to the arrests of Netanyahu’s adviser Yonatan Urich and former spokesman Eli Feldstein.

They are suspected of financial dealings linked to a US lobbying firm working for Qatar, allegedly in exchange for promoting Doha’s image while discrediting Egypt’s role as a mediator in the Gaza conflict. Both men deny any wrongdoing.

Speaking in a video statement following his questioning, Netanyahu accused authorities of holding Urich and Feldstein “as hostages” and insisted, “There is no case. There is absolutely nothing, just a political witch hunt.”

The investigation comes at a time of mounting domestic turmoil for Netanyahu, who faces intense protests over his handling of the war against Hamas in Gaza, the recent dismissal of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, and his contentious judicial overhaul plan. Critics argue that the probe could deepen divisions within Israel’s political landscape.

Details of the Allegations

The Israeli police announced Monday that the two men were detained on suspicions of contact with a foreign agent, money laundering, bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. Court-imposed restrictions initially limited details on the case, but a judge lifted the gag order on Tuesday after repeated media leaks.

According to reports, investigators suspect that Urich facilitated a connection between a Qatari-backed US lobbying firm and Feldstein, who allegedly received payments through an Israeli businessman.

These payments, authorities believe, were meant to shape public messaging in favor of Qatar while casting doubt on Egypt’s credibility in ceasefire negotiations.

A leaked recording last week reportedly featured the businessman admitting to transferring funds to Feldstein on behalf of a US lobbyist working for Qatar.

Feldstein’s legal team, however, maintains that the payments were for strategic and communications services provided to Netanyahu’s office, with no knowledge of any Qatari involvement. Urich’s lawyers have also denied any wrongdoing.

Judicial Developments and Political Fallout

On Tuesday, Rishon LeZion Magistrates’ Court extended the detention of Urich and Feldstein by three days, despite police requests for a nine-day extension. Judge Menahem Mizrahi cited “reasonable suspicions” justifying further investigation into their alleged actions.

Netanyahu’s Likud party has responded by accusing the attorney general and Shin Bet of “fabricating” the case to pressure Urich into providing false testimony against the prime minister.

Netanyahu has also suggested that the probe is a deliberate attempt to prevent the removal of Shin Bet director Ronen Bar, whose dismissal was announced on March 21 but was temporarily blocked by Israel’s Supreme Court pending an April 8 hearing.

Meanwhile, Qatar has dismissed the allegations as “a smear campaign” orchestrated by those seeking to prolong the Gaza conflict.

The Gulf state has played a key role in past hostage negotiations between Israel and Hamas and has previously provided financial aid to Gaza, a policy that has drawn both support and criticism within Israel.

As Netanyahu continues to battle legal and political challenges, the “Qatar-gate” investigation adds another layer of controversy to his already embattled leadership.

This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members