Will He Take Down Netanyahu? Feldstein in Talks to Turn State’s Witness
The former PM’s aide faces charges in the “Bild leak” and Qatar-Gate scandals, and prosecutors are weighing whether his testimony could expose how much Netanyahu really knew
TwitterIn recent weeks, progress has been made in negotiations between Eli Feldstein, indicted in the “Bild leak” affair and suspected in the “Qatar-gate” case, and the State Prosecutor’s Office regarding his possible turn into a state’s witness, a source familiar with the matter told israeli outlet Walla. However, no decision has yet been made on whether such a deal will be finalized.
Feldstein, whose associates had previously insisted he would refuse the role due to the negative stigma attached in ultra-Orthodox circles (“a traitor”), may be able to provide new materials concerning his activities in the Prime Minister’s Office, including how aware Benjamin Netanyahu was of his operations. Prosecutors are now examining whether he holds additional information beyond what he has already given during Shin Bet and police interrogations.
Feldstein’s lawyer, Adv. Oded Saborai, said: “We do not comment on the matter of Eli becoming a state witness.” The Prosecutor’s Office also declined to confirm or deny the development.
Feldstein is accused of leaking a classified document to the German daily Bild in order to influence public opinion on a hostage deal.
He is also under investigation in the “Qatar-gate” affair, in which Qatar allegedly sought to boost its image as mediator in hostage negotiations at Egypt’s expense by enlisting Israeli consultants.
