Netanyahu Aides Detained in Expanding 'Qatargate' Investigation

Two close associates of the Israeli Prime Minister are accused of receiving Qatari payments to influence Israel's policies, with Netanyahu denying involvement and calling the probe politically motivated.

Yonatan Urich and Eli Feldstein, aides to Prime Minister Netanyahu, remain in custody after an Israeli court extended their detention as part of the 'Qatargate' investigation.
The investigation alleges that the two aides received payments from Qatar to promote its interests in Israel, including its role as a mediator in Gaza truce and hostage negotiations.
Netanyahu has been questioned but is not a suspect; he has strongly denied any involvement, framing the investigation as a 'political witch hunt.'
The Shin Bet security agency's role in the probe has heightened tensions with Netanyahu, who has sought to dismiss its chief, Ronen Bar.
The scandal has intensified public protests and scrutiny of Netanyahu's leadership, amid broader political and security crises in Israel, including conflict in Gaza and judicial reform controversies.