Qatar-gate: Eli Feldstein and Jonathan Urich arrested

Two suspects were arrested this morning (Monday) by Lahav 433 as part of the ongoing "Qatar-Gate" affair, a probe into alleged ties between individuals close to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Qatar. The arrests mark a significant escalation in the investigation, which has drawn widespread attention.

According to police statements, the two individuals detained for questioning are considered "significant figures" in the affair, as reported by Ynet. Adding to the drama, Amit Haddad, the Prime Minister’s attorney and legal counsel for the two suspects—identified as Eli Feldstein and Yonatan Urich—abruptly left the Tel Aviv District Court during Netanyahu’s trial testimony this morning. Sources link his sudden departure to the arrests.

A comprehensive gag order has been imposed on the investigation. The police stated, "The order prohibits the publication of any details of the investigation, as well as the results of investigative actions, including the questioning of suspects and investigation findings." This ban extends to all media platforms, including social media, and forbids even indirect references to the case, such as quoting foreign media or hinting at related facts.

The arrests come amid heightened scrutiny of Netanyahu’s inner circle. Investigators are working to determine how much the Prime Minister knew about his advisors’ alleged connections with Qatar and whether he was aware of payments reportedly transferred from Qatar to those involved, including during periods of conflict.

In a related development, political commentator Amit Segal reported today: "A journalist is currently being questioned by the police on suspicion of receiving benefits from Qatar (in my opinion, an exaggerated false suspicion, but the police are investigating)." The identity of the journalist remains undisclosed due to the gag order, but this adds another layer of intrigue to the unfolding affair.

Last week, Channel 12 News reported that the investigation is gaining momentum, with sources suggesting that Netanyahu himself might be summoned to provide his account—initially as a witness, though questioning as a suspect under caution has not been ruled out. A source familiar with the probe emphasized that the investigation is moving swiftly, following police warnings to the Rishon LeZion District Court of potential attempts to obstruct proceedings. Authorities aim to wrap up the investigation within weeks.

Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses, though the gag order limits what can be reported at this stage.