Egypt Daily News – Israeli businessman Gil Berger admitted on Wednesday that he transferred funds from an American lobbying group called “J. Botlik,” working for the Qatari government, to Eli Feldstein, a suspect in the secret documents case at the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office.
According to the Israeli news website Walla, Berger acknowledged that he transferred the money as a favor to J. Botlik due to issues related to value-added tax.
The report stated that Feldstein received Qatari funds while serving as a spokesperson for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. However, it remains unclear whether Feldstein was aware that the money originated from Qatar. Netanyahu’s office denied any knowledge of the matter, dismissing it as “fake news.”
On February 16, the Shin Bet (Israel’s internal security agency) launched a review into Qatar’s alleged involvement in the Prime Minister’s Office, following a request by Knesset member Gilad Kariv, who cited media reports.
According to i24 News, this is currently a preliminary review rather than a full investigation. The Shin Bet is assessing the information provided before deciding on further steps. Kariv also submitted a request to Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara and Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar to launch a comprehensive investigation into Feldstein’s business dealings, along with other advisors’ connections to the Qatari government.
Netanyahu’s office strongly denied the claims that Feldstein provided consulting services to Qatar, calling them “completely false” and “a clear attempt to manipulate public opinion.”
These revelations come amid multiple media reports alleging that Feldstein advised Qatar—a country that Netanyahu frequently criticizes for its support of Hamas. The allegations have surfaced while Qatar continues to play a key mediating role in negotiations for the release of hostages in Gaza.
