Haaretz Journalist Admits Major Error in Reporting on Netanyahu

Haaretz journalist Michael Hauser Tov sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday, following a report alleging that UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed had warned Netanyahu about an impending Hamas plan before the October 7th attack. The Prime Minister's Office vehemently denied the report, stating that Netanyahu did not speak with bin Zayed during the relevant period and received no such warning.

Hauser Tov stated, "The most important conclusion from this morning is that we made a huge mistake here." He explained that he previously believed Netanyahu's opposition to a state inquiry commission stemmed from concerns about his historical legacy. However, the new report led him to believe Netanyahu has "something to hide in the facts."

He also criticized those advocating for a non-state inquiry commission, suggesting they are promoting an "alternative inquiry commission" and framing the issue as ideological when it is not. Hauser Tov argued that the focus should be on uncovering facts rather than assigning blame.

Hauser Tov connected the report to the ongoing debate about the scope of the investigation into the October 7th events. He suggested Netanyahu wants the inquiry to include the disengagement from Gaza to divert focus from the alleged conversation with bin Zayed and other potential discussions.

The Prime Minister's Office reiterated its denial, calling the report a "complete lie" and confirming no conversation or warning took place between Netanyahu and the UAE president during the specified timeframe.