Israeli businessman Gil Birger admitted to transferring funds from Qatari lobbyist Jay Footlik to Eli Feldstein, a spokesman for Prime Minister Netanyahu, due to tax concerns. Feldstein had previously provided public relations services related to hostage negotiations for Qatar. Additionally, two advisers to Netanyahu allegedly created a campaign to enhance Qatar’s image before the 2022 World Cup, which they deny.
Israeli businessman Gil Birger has disclosed that he transferred funds from Qatari lobbyist Jay Footlik to Eli Feldstein, who served as a spokesman for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This information emerged from a recording broadcast on Kan Bet public radio, confirming earlier reports by Israel’s Channel 13 News. In the recording, Birger indicated that the funds were provided due to tax-related concerns of those involved, stating, “[Feldstein] asked for my help because of tax concerns.”
Birger further noted his long-standing association with Feldstein, mentioning, “I’ve known him for 25 years. I’m not involved, I don’t operate in Israel.” He clarified that Feldstein hired Footlik for various services over several months.
Channel 12 reported that while Feldstein worked for Netanyahu, he was also engaged in providing public relations services for a foreign company representing the Qatari government concerning hostage negotiations. The report claimed Feldstein sought to positively influence perceptions of Qatar during this sensitive period. This PR initiative reportedly ceased amid the BibiLeaks affair.
Feldstein’s attorney countered Channel 12’s claims as inaccurate, and Omer Dostri from Netanyahu’s office asserted that they had no knowledge of the situation.
In a November report, Haaretz revealed that two senior advisers to Netanyahu were involved in a campaign to improve Qatar’s image leading up to the 2022 World Cup. Yonatan Urich and Israel Einhorn, operating through their company Perception, were allegedly working with another Israeli firm to promote Qatar positively, highlighting its attempts to achieve peace and stability despite its financial ties to Hamas. Both Urich and Perception have denied these allegations.
The investigation surrounding Gil Birger’s financial dealings reveals potential ethical implications regarding public relations efforts linked to the Qatari government during sensitive negotiations. The allegations about Eli Feldstein’s roles and actions raise questions about transparency and accountability within the Netanyahu administration. Moreover, the involvement of senior advisers in promoting Qatar’s image further complicates the narrative, highlighting the intricate connections between politics and lobbying.
Original Source: www.haaretz.com
