Benjamin Netanyahu has defended aides accused of receiving Qatari funding, stating that Qatar is not an enemy state. He challenged the accusations against his aides and noted that other Israeli politicians have praised Qatar for its role in hostage negotiations. Netanyahu emphasizes a diplomatic complexity regarding Qatar’s relationship with Israel.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly defended his aides amid allegations of receiving funding from Qatar, declaring that Qatar is not an adversary. In a recent video statement, he characterized Qatar as a “complex country,” emphasizing that it does not qualify as an enemy state.
Netanyahu contended that accusations against his aides are unfounded, noting that various figures in Israel, including political opponents and intelligence officials, often express favorable opinions about Qatar. His comments followed the release of a video where he accused police of detaining two of his aides as part of the Qatargate investigation.
Specifically, Netanyahu came to the defense of Jonatan Urich, a senior aide implicated in the investigation. He described Urich as an “ardent employee” whose role does not involve access to classified intelligence. The Prime Minister also pointed out that Urich’s alleged praise for Qatar is not unique.
Netanyahu highlighted that Opposition Leader Yair Lapid commended Qatar for its involvement in hostage negotiations after a meeting with a Qatari official earlier this year. He further noted that National Unity chairman Benny Gantz has also expressed admiration for Qatar on several occasions and undertook a visit to the country to promote his company’s surveillance software before his political career.
Additionally, Netanyahu mentioned that Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar has frequented Qatar during hostage negotiations, praising the nation’s assistance, and indicated that Bar attended the 2022 World Cup as a guest of Qatar.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s defense of his aides amid allegations of Qatari funding underscores a nuanced diplomatic stance toward Qatar, which he asserts is not an enemy state. He noted that various political figures in Israel, including adversaries, have praised Qatari efforts, particularly in hostage negotiations. This situation reflects the complexities of international relations and internal political dynamics within Israel.
Original Source: www.presstv.ir
