Chaim Levinson Addresses 'QatarGate' Fallout in First Interview Since Departure

Journalist Chaim Levinson has given his first interview since leaving the Israeli news program "Ophira and Levinson" a year ago, following his dismissal from the newspaper Haaretz due to undisclosed financial ties to a suspect in the 'QatarGate' scandal. Speaking with his former co-host Ophira Assaig on her new show, Levinson addressed the controversy and the fallout.

Assaig expressed feelings of betrayal, telling Levinson, "I am your friend, we shared personal secrets, not just professional ones. In fact, you betrayed me. I took the separation from you harder than the separation from [former co-host] Berkovich." Levinson responded, "Betrayal is a harsh word. We were together for a year and a half, with Berkovich you were 18 years. But I am sorry you see it as betrayal, I don't see it that way." He admitted he should have consulted Assaig before making decisions related to the scandal.

Levinson acknowledged the public criticism regarding his perceived hypocrisy, having advocated for transparency while failing to disclose his connections. He explained that at the time he began working with Assaig, he was no longer working with Israel Einhorn, the individual implicated in 'QatarGate,' and felt bound by a non-disclosure agreement. "In hindsight, it was a mistake," he stated, apologizing to viewers who felt misled. He admitted he erred by not disclosing his past work relationship, believing his public acknowledgment of being Einhorn's friend was sufficient.

Reflecting on the experience, Levinson noted that while difficult, the scandal also brought positive outcomes. "I saw people I thought were my friends betray me in the most vile and ugly way possible. But I'm looking forward, I've also gained new friends, like your ex-husband Ophira," he said, adding that friends offered him financial assistance and support.

The scandal erupted when it was revealed Levinson received approximately 200,000 shekels from a company owned by Einhorn in 2019. This led to his dismissal from Haaretz and his subsequent resignation from the popular broadcast with Assaig, who was unaware of the full extent of his ties to Einhorn.