Israeli Minister Nir Barkat Denies Brother's Involvement in Push News Site Purchase

Israeli Minister Nir Barkat strongly denied allegations that his brother or associates were involved in acquiring the news website Push. In a recent podcast interview with Eli Guthelf on Kikar FM, Barkat refuted claims published by Calcalist that his brother and close associates had become partners in the Push brand. When asked directly if there were any business ties between his brother and Push, Barkat responded firmly, "Everything is false and a lie."

Barkat explained that due to his ministerial position and conflict of interest regulations, he is not informed about such matters and is legally barred from inquiring further. He emphasized, "I have no idea what this is about," and stressed that he only operates within the boundaries set by legal advisors and the State Comptroller. Barkat also dismissed suggestions that the purchase was intended to benefit him personally, calling such claims "simply absurd."

This denial contrasts with a November 2025 Calcalist report stating that Barkat's brother, the family investment company BRM, and associates acquired 45% of Push at an estimated valuation of around 12 million shekels. The report also mentioned involvement by strategic advisor Moti Sharaf and the law firm Weinberger Rentantal, which represents Barkat in private matters. According to the report, the law firm held 7% of the brand through a company called "The Right Time," while most investment came from Forever Meta Worlds.

Guthelf pressed Barkat again on whether any deal had taken place, to which Barkat reiterated his denial, questioning if he needed to repeat himself. The minister also expressed frustration over what he described as attempts to "destroy" him politically.