A hearing took place today (Tuesday) at the Rishon Lezion Magistrate’s Court regarding the extension of the detention of two close advisers to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu—Yonatan Urich and Eli Feldstein—who were arrested on Monday in connection with the so-called “QatarGate” affair, known to police as “Train at the Gate.” Police requested a nine-day extension, but the judge approved just two. Meanwhile, two additional suspects were released to five days of house arrest.
Gag Order Lifted—But Delayed by a Day
Attorney Amit Hadad, who represents Urich, requested the gag order be lifted, arguing: “It’s become a joke. The case is leaking everywhere, and this is a severe violation of human rights. There’s no evidence—just hot air for the media.” The judge accepted the request and ruled that the gag order will expire tomorrow, allowing police time to appeal. He noted in his ruling: “This is an unusual case where the gag order has been rendered meaningless, not enforced in practice, and the investigation has become public.”
International Angle: Police Seek Testimony from Jay Footlik
At the same time, Israeli police reached out to American lobbyist Jay Footlik—who has known ties to the Qatari government—requesting an open statement. Footlik, currently in the U.S., expressed willingness to cooperate. Police are now weighing the option of sending investigator Momi Meshulam—who also took Netanyahu’s testimony—alongside another investigator and a state attorney to collect the statement abroad.
Alleged Pressure on Urich: “Be Smart If You Want to See Your Baby”
Today’s hearing began late, partly due to Judge Menachem Mizrahi’s insistence that the suspects appear in court in person. Eventually, the hearing proceeded remotely. During the proceedings, Attorney Hadad claimed police had pressured Urich to cooperate: “They told him—think carefully. If you want to see your baby girl tonight, be smart.” Police denied the claim.
Classified Leak—or a Misrepresented Message?
New findings were revealed in court: investigators alleged that Urich sent messages to journalists on behalf of the Prime Minister’s Office that actually originated with a source tied to Qatar and funded by it. According to police, these messages were presented as if they had come from official political or security sources. Urich was also questioned about allegedly leaking information from the security cabinet. At Hadad’s request, Netanyahu was asked about this claim during his own testimony.
Hadad argued the message in question wasn’t classified, stating: “The Prime Minister himself decides what is or isn’t confidential.” The judge disagreed, ruling that Urich is considered a public official, and therefore disclosing such information could carry criminal liability. Police also hinted at possible money laundering offenses, based on the suspected source of the funds.
The second detainee, Feldstein, also criticized what he described as “the police hijacking the investigation using improper tactics,” and claimed that Hadad—who represents both Netanyahu and Urich—was being targeted by investigators: “They accuse him of a conflict of interest, while they themselves are bending the rules.”
How the Investigation Unfolded—And What Led to the Arrests
The arrests were made after a key businessman—whose identity remains under gag order—arrived in Israel and was questioned under caution. During interrogation, he linked Urich and Feldstein to the alleged transfer of Qatari funds and to political messaging supposedly sent in their name. His testimony led to an open interview with Prime Minister Netanyahu, which lasted about an hour and was held at his office in Jerusalem.
Netanyahu Responds: “A Political Witch Hunt”
Following his statement, Netanyahu released a sharp video message, accusing law enforcement of “holding Urich and Feldstein hostage” and describing the case as “a political witch hunt meant to block the dismissal of the Shin Bet director and bring down the right-wing government.”
Political Ramifications and a Widening Probe
Both the political and legal establishments are watching closely as the investigation continues to expand—with no end in sight. With Netanyahu’s top aides now entangled in the case, legal experts are questioning whether the Prime Minister can continue efforts to remove Shin Bet Director Ronen Bar, whose agency is directly involved in the investigation.
