Israeli Businessman Admits to Fund Transfer from Qatari Lobbyist to Netanyahu Aide

Gil Birger, an Israeli businessman, admits to transferring funds from Qatari lobbyist Jay Footlik to Eli Feldstein, a former aide to Prime Minister Netanyahu. The transactions relate to tax issues, and allegations have surfaced regarding Feldstein’s PR work for the Qatari government during hostage negotiations. Legal representatives deny these claims, while a separate PR campaign aimed at enhancing Qatar’s image has also been reported.

Israeli businessman Gil Birger has been recorded admitting to transferring funds from Qatari lobbyist Jay Footlik to Eli Feldstein, who was serving as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s spokesman. The recording aired by Kan Bet public radio substantiates earlier reports from Israel’s Channel 13 News, revealing a series of transactions over several months linked to tax-related concerns. Birger stated, “[Feldstein] asked for my help because of tax concerns,” highlighting their long-standing acquaintance of 25 years.

Furthermore, in February, allegations emerged from Channel 12 that Feldstein had provided public relations services to a foreign firm representing the Qatari government regarding hostage negotiations while still employed by Netanyahu. He allegedly engaged with journalists to create a favorable narrative for Qatar during these discussions, facilitated via a foreign company that aimed to mediate relations between hostage families and the Qatari government. This effort ceased amid the controversy surrounding the BibiLeaks affair.

Feldstein’s lawyer contested Channel 12’s claims, asserting inaccuracies. Additionally, Omer Dostri, spokesperson for Netanyahu, clarified that the Prime Minister’s Office was unaware of the situation. In November, Haaretz reported on a PR campaign orchestrated by two of Netanyahu’s senior advisers focusing on improving Qatar’s public image ahead of the 2022 World Cup. The advisers, Yonatan Urich and Israel Einhorn, collaborated with another Israeli firm, creating a marketing strategy to project Qatar as a nation committed to peace and stability. Both Urich and Perception rejected these allegations.

In summary, the controversy surrounding Gil Birger’s financial transactions to Eli Feldstein raises significant questions about the relationships between Israeli officials and Qatari interests. While allegations persist regarding Feldstein’s dual role in PR services and his position with the Prime Minister’s office, both legal representatives and spokespeople have denied knowledge of any impropriety. The ongoing dialogue marks an important moment in scrutinizing foreign influence in Israel’s political landscape.

Original Source: www.haaretz.com