An Israeli businessman has acknowledged transferring funds from a lobbyist working for the Qatari government to Eli Feldstein, a spokesperson for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The payments, reportedly made to navigate tax issues, were revealed in a recording aired on March 19, 2025, by Israeli public broadcaster Kan. Businessman Gil Birger stated in the recording that US lobbyist Jay Footlik, who represents Qatar, requested that he transfer money to Feldstein over several months. “He asked me to help due to VAT issues,” Birger said.
The controversy has raised eyebrows as it occurs amidst an ongoing investigative probe dubbed “Qatargate,” which seeks to uncover whether top Netanyahu aides, including Feldstein, received funds from Qatar during sensitive negotiations between the Gulf state and Hamas, particularly relating to hostages. Birger claimed he was unaware that Feldstein was working in the Prime Minister’s Office.
Channel 13 previously reported that Feldstein was not receiving a direct salary from Netanyahu’s office due to a security clearance delay. His lawyers have stressed that while their client did receive funds from Birger, these were for “strategic and communications services” rendered to the Prime Minister’s Office, and not for any dealings connected to Qatar.
The implications of the investigation extend beyond mere financial transactions, delving deeply into the intersection of politics and international relations. As tensions continue to escalate, the Shin Bet security agency, alongside Lahav 433 — Israel’s major crimes unit — is leading the investigation into these allegations. Speculation has also arisen surrounding Netanyahu’s recent attempts to remove Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, further fueling theories that this move may be linked to the scrutiny of his cabinet members.
During the audio released by Kan, Birger noted he has known Footlik for 25 years, asserting, “I don’t involve myself in Israel's details,” and emphasizing his intention to help resolve VAT-related issues. Feldstein’s lawyers maintain their client’s innocence, contending that if Birger had connections to Qatar, Feldstein was completely unaware of them.
The ramifications of this story deepen as additional reports indicate that Feldstein previously engaged in public relations efforts for a company representing the Qatari government while serving in his role. In February 2025, Channel 12 News disclosed that he had been working to promote Qatar's image, especially during sensitive hostage negotiations with Hamas — a move that brought concern over potential conflicts of interest.
In November 2024, Haaretz emphasized that top advisers to Netanyahu, Yonatan Urich and Israel Einhorn, were involved in a public relations campaign to enhance Qatar’s reputation leading up to the 2022 World Cup. Their firm partnered with another Israeli entity to orchestrate a strategy portraying Qatar as a peaceful nation, raising further questions about the political ties between Netanyahu’s administration and Qatar.
In light of these revelations, Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara ordered a comprehensive investigation into the connections between officials in the Prime Minister's office and Qatar. This inquiry has heightened scrutiny of the financial dealings purportedly connecting Israel’s highest leadership to Qatari interests amid ongoing national security concerns.
As stated by Feldstein’s lawyers following the playback of Birger's recordings, it is clear their client is not directly implicated. “Since a blanket gag was issued on all details of the investigation that was dubbed Qatargate — and Kan would not have violated the order — it is clear that Feldstein is not a suspect in the affair, and for good reason,” they asserted.
Onlookers remain cautious as they navigate the implications of these allegations. The ongoing investigation could hold significant consequences for Netanyahu's leadership, especially given the political violence surrounding hostage negotiations and the erosion of public trust amongst his cabinet members.
This unfolding drama reveals a complex narrative not only involving political maneuvering but also a deep exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and the ethical boundaries of leadership in Israel. Analysts argue that as the allegations surface, Netanyahu’s political future may become increasingly precarious.
In conclusion, the intersection of financial dealings, political interests, and international relations constitutes a critical episode in Israel's contemporary landscape. As the investigation continues, the implications of these revelations will likely ripple through the corridors of power, leaving citizens and political leaders alike questioning the relationships at play and the integrity of their institutions.
