An ongoing investigation into the leak of classified documents from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has resulted in several arrests, as revealed by Judge Menachem Mizrahi of the Rishon Lezion Magistrate’s Court on Friday. The investigation, which has been dubbed the “security affair,” raises serious concerns regarding national security, particularly in light of Israel’s military objectives amidst the ongoing Gaza crisis.
During the court proceedings, Judge Mizrahi indicated that the leak had potentially undermined Israel’s war aims, prompting a coordinated investigation by the Shin Bet, Israel Police, and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). He confirmed the commencement of the “open phase” of this joint investigation, noting that multiple suspects had been apprehended for questioning, though he withheld details regarding their identities or connection to the Prime Minister’s office.
In response to these developments, Netanyahu’s office asserted that no staff members had been arrested in connection with the probe. However, some analysts pointed out that certain aides, while not officially employed, could still be connected to the prime minister.
Suspected Breach Of Hostage Negotiations
Reports suggest that the focus of the investigation centers around a potential hostage deal with Hamas. Reports also indicated that those under suspicion selectively leaked classified documents related to Hamas’s strategy in the negotiations. This leak allegedly coincided with two articles published in German and British media, which mirrored Netanyahu’s recent public statements about Hamas’s tactics, including claims about the group’s intent to smuggle Israeli hostages through the Philadelphi Corridor.
In July, Netanyahu introduced new conditions to an Israeli hostage proposal, which critics alleged were intended to complicate negotiations with Hamas. While Israel’s security establishment opposed these changes, they found support among Netanyahu’s far-right coalition partners, who threatened to destabilize the government if the original proposal was accepted.
Allegations Of Betrayal And Misconduct
A source close to one of the arrested individuals claimed that this person had been “thrown under the bus” by Netanyahu, asserting that the aide had devoted his life to serving the prime minister. The source described the aide’s extensive involvement in Netanyahu’s daily activities, stating, “He not only worked for Bibi, he was at the office every day… accompanied him on every visit.”
Local media aired blurred images of the suspect alongside Netanyahu and other ministers, challenging the premier’s assertion that the aide was not affiliated with his office. There are also indications that the investigation may uncover leaks from other ministerial offices, although details remain sparse.
Security Clearance Controversy
The scandal appears to involve a spokesperson in the Prime Minister’s Office who was allegedly allowed access to classified information despite lacking necessary security clearance. Reports indicated that Netanyahu was made aware of this individual’s status but failed to act, allowing them continued access to sensitive documents and involvement in high-security events.
As the situation unfolds, the gag order surrounding the investigation has been partially lifted, allowing for greater scrutiny and media coverage. This comes after Netanyahu, alongside various Israeli media outlets, petitioned for the lifting of the order to clarify the details of the affair.
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