Shin Bet Files Complaint Over News 12 Report on Netanyahu's UAE Visit

The Shin Bet security agency has filed a complaint with the military censor against Channel 12 News, alleging that a report on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to the United Arab Emirates endangered security. The report revealed details of the visit while Netanyahu was still en route back to Israel. This contrasts with a previous visit in March, which was only reported weeks later and caused anger in the UAE. The Shin Bet's complaint suggests the timing of the leak during the flight back was a security risk.

Following the report, the UAE's official news agency confirmed the visit, stating that UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed Prime Minister Netanyahu. They discussed bilateral relations and ways to strengthen them. The Prime Minister's office also released a statement confirming the visit, noting it was at the invitation of President Al Nahyan and focused on strengthening ties and addressing regional challenges. Key Israeli officials, including the National Security Advisor, the head of the Mossad, the military secretary, and the diplomatic advisor, also participated.

Notably, the Prime Minister's wife, Sara Netanyahu, also attended the visit, a detail that emerged within the context of the complaint against Channel 12. The initial report by Channel 12, which triggered the Shin Bet's action, focused on the security implications of revealing the visit while the Prime Minister was still in transit.