Netanyahu Lawyer Denies Reports of UAE President's Warning

Oriel Huri Nazri, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's lawyer, has vehemently denied reports claiming the UAE President, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, warned Netanyahu about an imminent attack by Hamas leader Sinwar in late September 2023. Nazri stated in an interview with i24NEWS Hebrew that the reports are "lies" and a way to spread conspiracy theories, emphasizing that Netanyahu himself has clarified no such call took place. The controversy stems from a Haaretz newspaper report alleging that bin Zayed had conveyed a stark warning to Netanyahu about Sinwar's intentions to harm Israel, urging him to take the situation seriously. The report further claimed Netanyahu reacted with relative calm and did not brief security chiefs. A statement attributed to the Prime Minister's office called the reports "absolute lies," asserting Netanyahu did not speak with the UAE President during that period or receive any warning. The statement added that if any relevant information existed, it would have been transferred through official intelligence channels. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs declined to comment on media stories or speculation about conversations between leaders, stating the UAE's engagement since October 7 has focused on de-escalation and regional stability, and that government entities in both countries have maintained open communication channels. Netanyahu has demanded Haaretz remove the report, issue an apology, and pay 2.5 million shekels within 72 hours, or face a lawsuit exceeding that amount.