Bennett Criticizes Qatar Ties While His Government Advanced Relations
Translated & summarized from Now 14 by baba
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett is criticizing alleged ties between the Prime Minister's office and Qatar, despite his own government facilitating fuel transfers to Gaza and advancing diplomatic and economic ties with Doha. During Bennett's term, "international civilian projects" allowed goods, including vehicles used by Hamas, into Gaza. His government also reportedly pursued a "secret diamond deal" with Qatar and allowed Israelis to attend the World Cup there.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Former PM Naftali Bennett is criticizing alleged ties between the PM's office and Qatar.
- During Bennett's government, diesel fuel was transferred to Gaza, funded by Qatar.
- His government allowed goods, including Toyota trucks, into Gaza for "civilian projects."
- A "secret diamond deal" reportedly advanced official relations between Israel and Qatar.
- Israelis were permitted to attend the World Cup in Qatar during Bennett's tenure.
- Qatar purchased an Israeli high-tech anti-drone system for World Cup security.
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett is currently criticizing alleged ties between the Prime Minister's office and Qatar. However, during his "Change Government's" tenure, Israel facilitated the transfer of diesel fuel to Gaza, advanced diplomatic and economic initiatives with Doha, and sold Israeli technology to Qatar. The article questions Bennett's current stance, labeling Qatar an "enemy state," by examining his government's actions.
Shortly after Bennett's government was sworn in, reports indicated Israel resumed diesel transfers to Gaza's power station, funded by Qatar. Months later, following the death of soldier Baral Hadaria Shmueli near the Gaza border, Bennett's government permitted the entry of goods into Gaza under the guise of "international civilian projects." Notably, these included Toyota pickup trucks, similar to those used by Hamas during the October 7th attack.
Further diplomatic engagement included a "secret diamond deal" that reportedly brought Israel and Qatar closer to establishing official relations, a move that contrasts with Bennett's rhetoric. In June 2022, then-Defense Minister Beni Gantz announced that Israelis could travel to Qatar for the World Cup, calling Qatar a country of "international importance" that contributes to regional stability. This was done with the cooperation of then-Foreign Minister Yair Lapid and then-Culture and Sport Minister Hili Tropper.
Additionally, Qatar purchased an Israeli high-tech venture for World Cup security, including anti-drone technology. The company was led by Nimrod Shaqed, son of former Air Force commander Elazar Shaqed. The article concludes by questioning who was effectively working for Qatar's interests.
Mentioned
