Israeli businessman Gil Birger reportedly transferred funds from Qatari lobbyist Jay Footlik to Eli Feldstein, a former aide to Prime Minister Netanyahu, for tax-related reasons. A recording confirmed these transactions, while Feldstein’s role in public relations concerning Qatar during hostage negotiations has also come to light, drawing scrutiny and denial from involved parties.
Recent disclosures have emerged regarding Israeli businessman Gil Birger’s financial transactions involving Qatari lobbyist Jay Footlik and Eli Feldstein, a former spokesman for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. A recording, broadcasted by Kan Bet public radio, reveals Birger stating that he transferred funds to Feldstein over several months to address tax-related issues.
In the recording, Mr. Birger mentioned, “[Feldstein] asked for my help because of tax concerns. I’ve known him for 25 years. I’m not involved, I don’t operate in Israel.” Allegedly, Feldstein utilized Birger’s assistance to engage in a financial arrangement while serving Netanyahu.
Further investigations by Israel’s Channel 12 disclosed that during his tenure with Netanyahu, Feldstein provided public relations services to a foreign entity representing the Qatari government, particularly concerning hostage negotiations. His involvement allegedly aimed to promote a favorable narrative about Qatar amid the sensitive timings of these discussions.
The situation intensified following the BibiLeaks affair, which led to Feldstein’s consultancy employment being terminated. Meanwhile, a legal representative for Feldstein has disputed the reports from Channel 12, asserting their inaccuracies. In response, Omer Dostri, spokesperson for Netanyahu, affirmed that the Prime Minister’s Office was unaware of the matters surrounding Feldstein.
Moreover, a November report from Haaretz revealed that two senior advisors to Netanyahu launched a public relations initiative to enhance Qatar’s image prior to the 2022 soccer World Cup. These advisors, Yonatan Urich and Israel Einhorn, reportedly collaborated with another Israeli firm to construct a campaign aimed at portraying Qatar positively amid its role as a financial supporter of Hamas.
The revelations concerning Gil Birger’s financial dealings with Eli Feldstein raise significant questions about the intertwining of Israeli political figures and foreign interests. The validity of these claims remains contested, specifically regarding Feldstein’s role with Qatari lobbying efforts. Additionally, the public relations campaign led by Netanyahu’s advisors to rehabilitate Qatar’s image highlights the complex dynamics at play within international diplomacy related to the region.
Original Source: www.haaretz.com
