The Hostage Connection and Anti-Egypt Messages: All Suspicions Against Urich and Feldstein Revealed 

The investigation into the close advisers of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is branching out, with the most serious suspicions against Yonatan Urich and Eli Feldstein revealed today (Tuesday) for the first time: transmitting messages on behalf of Qatar under the guise of a "diplomatic source"—and for payment. Since the publication ban was lifted for the first time today after weeks of investigation, the sequence of events has become clearer.

According to the suspicion, an American company called "Third Circle," owned by Jay Footlik and engaged, among other things, in promoting Qatar’s interests in several countries, including Israel, established direct and indirect contact with Urich. The aim was to promote a positive image of Qatar regarding the hostage deal and to spread negative messages about Egypt to elevate Qatar’s standing.

To this end, a business and financial connection was established between this company, facilitated by Urich and another suspect, in exchange for monetary payment transferred from the company to Feldstein through a businessman named Gil Berger. In practice, according to the suspicion, the three worked to pass messages to press reporters in a manner that appeared in media outlets, producing articles favorable to Qatar while downplaying Egypt’s role in the deal and effectively shaping the media agenda.

The detention of Urich and Feldstein was extended this morning in a hearing at the Rishon Lezion Magistrate’s Court until Thursday. This comes as the police requested a nine-day extension of their detention.

Attorney Uri Korb, Jay Footlik’s defense lawyer told Guy Peleg: "Footlik will provide testimony in the United States if requested; he will cooperate with the Israeli police. He has been working with Qatar for many years and acted voluntarily to assist the families of the hostages."

Walla contributed to this article.