Will the “unsinkable” Netanyahu finally be undone by scandal?

A major political scandal, “Qatargate,” has erupted in Israel, casting a shadow over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s career. Allegations of Qatari interference in Israeli politics are at the heart of the investigation, with former Netanyahu aide Eliezer Feldstein at the center. Feldstein, arrested in November 2024, faces charges of leaking classified documents to the press and orchestrating high-level leaks, all allegedly with Netanyahu’s approval, in the name of combatting disinformation.

Feldstein, while working for Netanyahu’s administration, also provided consulting services to Qatar. His team helped Doha improve its image ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup and regain lost market positions following a regional diplomatic crisis. During the 2023 war with Hamas, Feldstein used his official position to highlight Qatar’s role in brokering peace efforts, often positioning it above Egypt and Jordan, with support from Qatar’s Al Jazeera media network.

The investigation’s expansion has raised suspicions of deeper misconduct, particularly concerning Qatar’s alleged role in downplaying Hamas-related scandals. The allegations suggest Qatar used Israeli government documents to deflect international scrutiny. Although Feldstein’s defense team calls these claims baseless, unanswered questions remain about how Qatar emerged relatively unscathed from various controversies.

Adding intrigue to the scandal are other suspects, including political operatives Yonatan Urich and Srulik Einhorn, as well as Israeli businessman Gil Birger. Birger, linked to lobbying activities involving Qatar, downplayed his role in the affair, but some witnesses suggest Qatar’s actions were not possible without backing from senior Israeli officials. Allegations of Israeli involvement in shadow trade with Arab monarchies further complicate the investigation.

As the investigation continues to widen, questions about Netanyahu’s involvement grow. Netanyahu’s role remains unclear, but the scandal has tarnished his image, sparking calls for his resignation. Shin Bet head Ronen Bar, who was once involved in negotiations with Hamas, coined the term “Qatargate” and has accused Netanyahu of endangering national security through the leaks. Netanyahu’s efforts to remove Bar have only added to the political turmoil, escalating tensions within the government.

The investigation is spreading beyond the political elite, now affecting the business community and casting doubt on Netanyahu’s leadership. With far-right leader Itamar Ben-Gvir’s return to the cabinet and Netanyahu’s attempts to consolidate power, the situation is in flux. Ben-Gvir’s alignment with Netanyahu further stabilizes the coalition, but opposition forces are using protests in support of Bar to increase pressure.

The “Qatargate” scandal has left Netanyahu facing challenges not just from his political rivals but also from within his own party. As the situation in Gaza continues to worsen, with military operations escalating, Netanyahu’s ability to navigate this crisis is increasingly questioned. The stakes are high, with each move potentially determining his political future.

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