Netanyahu Alleges Police Attempt to Undermine His Government Amid Ongoing Investigation

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly accused the Israeli police of attempting to undermine his government, labeling the situation a ‘political witch hunt.’ In a video statement released on Monday, he asserted that law enforcement has failed to present any evidence against two aides recently arrested in connection with an investigation.

On Monday, Netanyahu was called in for questioning as part of a larger inquiry into potential financial connections between his office and Qatar. The prime minister reported that he was interrogated for approximately an hour before insisting on viewing any available evidence. According to him, there was none.

Arrests Connected to Probe Involving Alleged Communications

Eli Feldstein and Yonatan Urich, the aides mentioned by Netanyahu, were reportedly arrested on the same day in connection with this investigation. Reports indicate that Feldstein, a former member of Netanyahu’s team, is suspected of relaying messages to journalists regarding Qatar while serving in the prime minister’s office.

The content of these messages allegedly involved Qatar’s role in negotiating the return of Israeli hostages, among other topics.

Details Remain Confined Under Gag Order

Due to the ongoing investigation being under a gag order, specific charges against Feldstein and Urich have not been made public. However, various reports, including one from The Washington Post, cite Israeli sources claiming that both individuals face allegations of contact with a foreign agent, bribery, and fraud.

Netanyahu’s Struggle with Internal Politics

Adding to his already complicated political circumstances, Netanyahu is also confronting an internal struggle over the leadership of Shin Bet, Israel’s domestic intelligence service. He has expressed intentions to dismiss chief Ronen Bar, attributing it to a perceived lack of trust. Some analysts, however, speculate that this conflict is linked to the fallout from the tragic events of October 7, which involved significant security failures.

Last month, Netanyahu went public with his plans to remove Bar, citing an ‘ongoing distrust’ as a primary reason. Yet, some observers suggest that Bar’s assessment leading up to the October 7 incident, which indicated a prolonged period of ineffective government policies, has made Netanyahu wary of the Shin Bet leader.

Bar’s Response and Legal Proceedings

In light of Netanyahu’s moves, Bar rebuffed the prime minister’s expectations, stating that any demand for personal loyalty directly contradicts the public’s interest. This statement raises significant questions about the independence of Israel’s security apparatus.

Furthermore, Israel’s High Court has intervened, freezing Bar’s planned removal, which was initially scheduled for April 8. Nevertheless, Netanyahu has been permitted to proceed with interviewing candidates for Bar’s potential replacement.

Potential Successor Arrives from Military Background

On Monday, Netanyahu’s office disclosed that he has nominated Vice Adm. Eli Sharvit, a former commander of the Israeli Navy, to take over Bar’s position. Netanyahu praised Sharvit, highlighting his extensive military experience, which spans 36 years. During his tenure as Navy commander, Sharvit was instrumental in developing maritime defenses and executing complex operations against various threats, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran.

Political Implications of Ongoing Investigations

The political landscape for Netanyahu remains precarious as he navigates these recent allegations and powers struggles. The investigations dubbed ‘Qatargate’ are not only impacting his essential domestic alliances but also have repercussions on his broader governance. As the prime minister deals with pressure from various fronts, he remains adamant that the investigations are part of an orchestrated attempt to thwart his leadership.

In addition to the turbulence surrounding his administration, the recent arrests of his aides cast a shadow over the integrity of his communication with international entities. Analysts will be closely monitoring how these developments unfold, particularly in relation to Netanyahu’s future as prime minister and the potential effects on Israeli security strategies.

The implications of these ongoing issues suggest a deeper struggle within the Israeli political system, challenging the boundaries of legal and executive powers.

Fox News Digital’s Alex Nitzberg and Yonat Friling contributed to this report.