Netanyahu Denies Meeting Egyptian Intelligence Chief, Vows Defamation Lawsuit

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office has vehemently denied reports that he met with or spoke to Egyptian Intelligence Chief Abbas Kamel in the months leading up to the October 7th Hamas attacks. The office also stated that no Israeli intelligence officials conveyed any Egyptian warnings about developments in Gaza to Netanyahu. This statement directly refutes media reports claiming that Netanyahu received such warnings from Egypt prior to the attacks.

In response to these reports, which Netanyahu's office described as false and damaging, the Prime Minister has ordered the filing of a defamation lawsuit. The office emphasized that Netanyahu's interactions with foreign intelligence chiefs are strictly regulated and that he never meets or speaks with a foreign intelligence head without the presence of his Israeli counterparts. This clarification aims to counter claims of a private meeting between Netanyahu and Kamel, separate from Israeli officials, especially in light of the alleged Egyptian warning.

Netanyahu's office also criticized what it termed a "despicable and false campaign" by left-wing media outlets in recent weeks. The office alleges that this campaign seeks to hold Netanyahu responsible for all failures and events preceding October 7th, as well as for alleged "crimes by Ronen Bar" on the eve of the attack.

The denial comes amid ongoing debate about whether Egyptian warnings reached Israeli leadership before October 7th and if Netanyahu was directly or indirectly informed. Netanyahu's office maintains its position, confirming no meeting or communication with Kamel and no relayed Egyptian warnings, while also announcing legal action.