Netanyahu Provides Testimony in 'Qatargate' Investigation
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Synopsis
On April 1, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu testified for two hours regarding the 'Qatargate' investigation, which examines alleged business ties between his associates and the Qatari government. The investigation has led to the arrest of two key figures connected to Netanyahu.
Key Takeaways
- Netanyahu testified for two hours in 'Qatargate' probe.
- The investigation focuses on business ties with Qatar.
- Two associates were arrested in connection with the case.
- Netanyahu claims the probe is politically motivated.
- Qatar plays a role in Israeli-Gaza negotiations.
Jerusalem, April 1 (NationPress) Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu provided testimony for approximately two hours to investigators at his office in Jerusalem, as reported by Israeli media.
This public testimony is part of a probe known as 'Qatargate', which investigates alleged business connections between Netanyahu's associates and the Qatari government, according to the Xinhua news agency.
Channel 12 television indicated that the prime minister was interrogated as a knowledgeable figure in the matter, rather than as a suspect. The public testimony was mandated by Israel's Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara.
Earlier on Monday, Israeli authorities detained two individuals linked to the case: Yonatan Urich, a senior adviser to Netanyahu, and Eli Feldstein, the prime minister's former military affairs spokesperson.
The investigation is centered around suspected illicit business activities involving these two close associates of Netanyahu and Qatar, a Gulf nation that lacks formal diplomatic relations with Israel but has played a significant role in mediating ceasefire agreements in the Gaza Strip and facilitating hostage negotiations.
According to Channel 12, Urich and Feldstein are reportedly under suspicion for engaging with a foreign agent, bribery, fraud, breach of trust, and money laundering related to the investigation.
After his testimony, Netanyahu stated in a video that the inquiry is merely a political witch hunt aimed at preventing the dismissal of the head of the Shin Bet and seeking to unseat a right-wing prime minister.
