Israeli police have detained a top aide to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on suspicion of leaking classified information to foreign media outlets. The aide, Eliezer Feldstein, is among several individuals being questioned over the alleged leak of sensitive intelligence data.
The investigation revolves around claims that the Prime Minister's Office promoted a narrative to foreign media suggesting that Hamas planned to smuggle hostages out of Gaza through Egypt. This purported scheme was believed to be an attempt to pressure Netanyahu into agreeing to a ceasefire and hostage release deal.
Opposition leaders have accused the intelligence of being fabricated to sabotage negotiations with Hamas. They allege that the leaked information was part of a misinformation campaign aimed at influencing public opinion and undermining efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.
Despite the arrest, a spokesperson for Netanyahu has denied any leaks from the Prime Minister's Office and stated that the individual in question was not involved in security-related discussions.
The leaked information formed the basis of articles published in the Jewish Chronicle and Germany's Bild, supporting Netanyahu's stance during ongoing ceasefire negotiations. However, the Israeli military has refuted some of the claims made in these articles, stating that certain documents were not authored by Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar as alleged.
The families of Israeli hostages in Gaza have accused Netanyahu of obstructing potential agreements with Hamas for political reasons. Opposition leaders have condemned the alleged leaks as a serious breach of national security, with some labeling it a 'national crime.'
The unfolding scandal has raised concerns about the integrity of the Israeli government and its handling of sensitive information. As the investigation continues, questions linger about the motives behind the leaked intelligence and its impact on hostage negotiations in the region.
