News Correspondent Apologizes for Staying at Lobbyist's Home Amid Qatar Scandal

News 13 correspondent Suleiman Maswadeh has apologized after reports revealed he stayed for two weeks in the Virginia home of Jay Footlik, an American lobbyist involved in promoting Qatar's interests and a central figure in the 'Qatargate' scandal. Maswadeh, who is News 13's correspondent in the United States, explained that he paid for the accommodation and that Footlik is a longtime friend. He stated that he stayed in the vacant apartment during his initial settling-in period in Washington D.C.

In a public apology, Maswadeh took responsibility, saying, "I made a mistake. As a journalist, my responsibility is not only to maintain professional independence but also to avoid situations that could raise doubts about it." He acknowledged that he did not act as expected and expressed regret. Maswadeh emphasized that his personal friendship with Footlik never influenced his journalistic judgment, reporting decisions, or professional work, reaffirming his commitment to truth and clean journalism.

News 13 confirmed Maswadeh's stay in the apartment, describing it as a personal friendship unrelated to his work. The network stated that Maswadeh never covered Footlik, his businesses, or his clients, and did not broadcast information from him. However, they admitted he erred in judgment. The company stands behind Maswadeh and fully supports his professional work.

The connection to Footlik is significant due to the ongoing Qatargate investigation. Police are examining allegations that Footlik's lobbying firm was involved in transferring payments to Eli Feldstein, former advisor to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in exchange for promoting Qatar's image and negatively portraying Egypt's mediation efforts. The police investigated the financial transactions for suspected bribery.

Maswadeh himself testified in the case about 18 months ago while working for the Israel Broadcasting Corporation. He was among journalists questioned about connections with Feldstein and materials transferred to the media.