An Israeli court has partially lifted a gag order on a case investigating leaks of classified information suspected to involve one of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s media advisers. The leaks are believed to have aimed at providing political cover for Netanyahu during Gaza cease-fire talks that had stalled.
Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the individual in question had no access to classified information or involvement in security discussions. The central suspect in the case, Eli Feldstein, reportedly one of Netanyahu’s media advisers, has been named in Israeli media reports. Feldstein is alleged to have leaked classified information to European media outlets without formal employment or security clearance.
The leaked documents were used in discredited articles in the London-based Jewish Chronicle and Germany's Bild newspaper. These articles supported Netanyahu's stance in the cease-fire talks and shifted blame away from him for their failure. The leaks have sparked skepticism among Israeli media and observers.
The investigation involves multiple suspects, with police, the military, and the Shin Bet internal security agency conducting arrests and questioning. The leak is deemed to pose a risk to sensitive information and sources, potentially impacting the goals of the Gaza conflict.
Netanyahu, who is facing corruption charges in separate cases, has distanced himself from the leak scandal, emphasizing that it did not hinder hostage negotiations. However, critics view the affair as a serious breach that may have undermined the war's objectives.
Hamas, which initiated the conflict with an attack in October 2023, continues to hold hostages and demand a lasting cease-fire, Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and the release of Palestinian prisoners. The United States, Egypt, and Qatar are working to restart negotiations following the killing of a top Hamas leader.
Netanyahu's office has dismissed the leak's significance and accused the judiciary of bias. Despite the controversy, Netanyahu remains focused on his political image and defense against the allegations.
This case has raised concerns about national security and potential interference in hostage negotiations, adding complexity to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
For more updates on the Israel-Hamas war, visit AP's war coverage.
