Leak scandal rocks Netanyahu’s office, raising suspicions of interference in Gaza ceasefire talks for political gain.
An ongoing investigation in Israel has uncovered the suspected leak of classified information from an associate of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, raising concerns that the leaks were aimed at providing political cover for the prime minister during critical Gaza ceasefire negotiations.
While Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing, the case has become a major source of controversy, with critics accusing the prime minister’s office of interfering with the negotiations and undermining efforts to secure a lasting ceasefire and the release of hostages.
The leaked information reportedly formed the basis of articles in European media outlets that appeared to support Netanyahu’s demands in the talks, including his push for lasting Israeli control over the Philadelphi corridor along the Gaza-Egypt border.
These articles were later discredited, but they seemed to provide political cover for Netanyahu as he faced intense public criticism over the failure to reach a deal.
The court is now considering whether to lift a gag order on the case, as the investigation involves allegations of serious breaches of national security.
Netanyahu has downplayed the affair, arguing that the leaked information actually helped the hostage-release efforts, but his critics have described it as one of the gravest affairs Israel has ever known.
As the legal proceedings continue, the scandal has become a major distraction for the prime minister, who is already facing corruption charges in separate cases.
The allegations of interference in the Gaza ceasefire talks have further eroded public trust and raised concerns about the integrity of the political process in Israel.