Full Breakdown
Naftali Bennett Accuses Netanyahu of Betrayal Amid Qatar-Gate Affair
12/22/2025, 8:35:28 PM
Allegations of Betrayal in the Prime Minister's Office
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has made serious allegations against current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the Qatar-gate affair. Bennett claims that Netanyahu's office engaged in actions that betrayed the State of Israel and its soldiers during wartime by promoting a positive image of Qatar, a nation he describes as a primary sponsor of Hamas. This accusation follows an investigative report by i24NEWS, which revealed that advisers in Netanyahu's office allegedly disseminated messages favorable to Qatar while Israel was engaged in conflict with Hamas.
Bennett stated, “Netanyahu’s office betrayed the State of Israel and IDF soldiers during wartime and acted on behalf of Qatar for financial gain—and Netanyahu himself is covering it up.” He characterized this as "the most serious act of treason in Israel’s history," emphasizing that the advisers involved were operating from within the Prime Minister's Office, a critical area for national security.
Key Figures Involved
The report highlighted three advisers close to Netanyahu: Eli Feldstein, Shrolik Einhorn, and Yonatan Urich. Bennett accused these individuals of receiving salaries from Qatar during the conflict, asserting that they exploited their positions to bolster Qatar's interests while Israeli soldiers were fighting Hamas. He stated, “Three of Netanyahu’s closest advisers effectively served as paid, activated agents of Qatar and Hamas at the height of the war.”
Implications for Israeli Security
Bennett's accusations extend beyond mere political rivalry; he argues that the actions of Netanyahu's office directly undermined Israel's security objectives. He pointed out that Qatar has historically supported Hamas, stating, “Qatar equals Hamas,” and criticized the government for failing to achieve its goal of dismantling Hamas. He claimed that the advisers' actions contributed to the ongoing strength of Hamas, which continues to pose a threat to Israel.
Calls for Accountability
Bennett has called for Netanyahu's immediate resignation, regardless of whether the Prime Minister was aware of his advisers' actions. He argued that both possibilities—knowledge or ignorance—are equally concerning. He stated, “The people of Israel need absolute trust in their leaders,” and proposed the establishment of a state commission of inquiry to investigate the matter further.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of Bennett's claims may argue that the allegations lack sufficient evidence or that they are politically motivated. However, the gravity of the accusations has sparked significant debate within Israeli political circles about accountability and the integrity of leadership during wartime.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Netanyahu’s office betrayed the State of Israel and IDF soldiers during wartime and acted on behalf of Qatar for financial gain-and Netanyahu himself is covering it up.” — Naftali Bennett, Former Prime Minister
- “This is the most serious act of betrayal in Israel's history.” — Naftali Bennett, Former Prime Minister
- “ He concluded: “The people of Israel need absolute trust in their leaders.” — Naftali Bennett, Former Prime Minister
The unfolding situation raises critical questions about the relationship between Israel and Qatar, the integrity of its leadership, and the implications for national security as the conflict with Hamas continues.
