PM Netanyahu's Advisor Jonathan Orich Threatens Legal Action Against Israel Hayom Over False Classified Information Claims

Jonathan Orich, advisor to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has sent a legal warning to the newspaper Israel Hayom demanding the removal of a report alleging he transferred classified information to Qatar to harm Egypt. Orich's lawyers addressed the letter to the newspaper's publisher Miriam Adelson and editor-in-chief Amar Lahmanovich, calling the claims "false, serious, and baseless." They demanded a retraction, apology, and disclosure of the source behind the report.

The lawyers emphasized that Orich never received or transmitted classified information to Qatar nor was involved in any such activity. They also noted that the allegations were not part of any investigation against Orich, and the supposed evidence cited by the newspaper did not substantiate the central claim. The letter criticized the newspaper for failing to verify the factual basis before publishing such a serious accusation, despite attributing the claim to a "security source" and using the term "allegedly."

The legal notice requires Israel Hayom to remove the article from all platforms, including its website, print edition, social media, and search engines, and to publish a prominently placed correction and apology. Additionally, the newspaper must clarify it has no evidence confirming Orich received or passed classified information to Qatar. Orich's lawyers also demand the identity of the source, related correspondence, and materials connected to the story. The newspaper was given a deadline of 10:00 AM on Tuesday, August 11, to respond, or Orich reserves the right to pursue legal action.